Catholic Charities of DeSoto County

Boots and Bandannas event sees record attendance

 

 

Lake Suzy--More than 200 people attended the ninth annual Boots and Bandannas Dinner Dance at the Kingsway Country Club to support the programs and services of Catholic Charities of DeSoto County.

 

Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the guest of honor and welcomed patrons outfitted in western garb to an evening featuring silent and live auctions and lively dancing. Signature items in the auctions included authentic jewelry from New Mexico, a 40-pound chocolate basket, and a hand-made quilt from the Quilters of St. Thomas More Parish in Sarasota.

 

"This event is our signature fundraiser," said Program Director Andy Herigodt. "It's success is critical to our ability to provide the breadth of services that we offer. Additionally, it serves as a way to bring together many of our most dedicated supporters to celebrate. We were happy to have several first time attendees this year."

 

Co-chairs of the event included long-time volunteers Rose Sherrard, Gene Dolecki, and Bob Gannon.

“The current economy has made it difficult for people to make ends meet in Arcadia and the surrounding communities," said Herigodt. People who are looking for work but cannot find it are coming to the agency for food, clothing, and help with their utility bills or rent. “People we haven’t seen in five or six years are again showing up at our doorstep. Unfortunately we are limited in the amount of assistance we can offer,” she said.

Catholic Charities of DeSoto County assists clients with a variety of services. The Direct Assistance program offers help with emergency food or clothing needs, or financial support with utilities, rent, mortgage payments or prescription medication. Immigration services provide counselors that are certified through the Bureau of Immigration Appeals (BIA) who process Immigration and Naturalization Service applications. The After School Tutoring program supports children who are at risk of failure in school by giving them one-on-one tutoring and mentoring.

 

For more information about Catholic Charities of DeSoto County, please call 863-494-1068.

Photo: A dance floor filled with patrons is a tradition at the annual Boots and Bandannas party.