Over $30,000 raised for The Children's Shelter in Walnut Ridge

WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – Many dressed up, many bid and it was “all for the kids” Thursday night at The Children’s Shelter Gala in Walnut Ridge.

The event was held at The Studio on Main Street, with visitors from across Northeast Arkansas gathering to raise over $30,000 for The Children’s Shelter.

The Children’s Shelter is a private, nonprofit organization which provides 24-hour emergency, temporary residential care to children who are victims of family violence, neglect, and physical or sexual abuse, according to TheChildrensShelter.org. It’s designed to meet the needs of these children by providing them with an immediate, safe environment until suitable relative or foster care becomes available.

Live and silent auctions were held to raise money and from Lawrence County Judge Dale Freeman to Walnut Ridge Mayor Charles Snapp, the community was well represented by both visitors and items up for bid. Some of the items included “date nights” in Jonesboro, gym memberships in Walnut Ridge, or shows in Pocahontas. Unique art, crafts, furniture, decorations and other pieces were also up for bid.

The event was organized by Fran Cavenaugh, who recognized the help of the committee she chairs, including Milton Smith, Melissa McVay, Judy Turnbull and Ken Ziegler.

Cavenaugh also thanked volunteers Sharna Butts, Ed Harris, Morgan Horne, Frank Hughey, Dina Rose, Madisyn Salard and Gary Salard Jr.