Press Releases

Event with Naomi Judd Raises $90,000 for Homeless

ORLANDO, Fla. — (Dec 6, 2007)—Naomi Judd's inspiring story of survival helped the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, Inc. raise nearly $90,000 for its programs and services at the 2nd Annual Celebration on November 27, 2007. This year's lunch time event - presented by Insight Financial Credit Union - focused on crimes against women, a lesser-known and growing reason for homelessness among women and children, as well as the Coalition's Women's Residential and Counseling Center (WRCC), a transitional housing program for women and children. Almost 70% of the women at WRCC are victims of domestic violence.

The Annual Celebration also paid tribute to community leaders who have made extraordinary contributions toward Coalition for the Homeless' goals over the past year. Hilton Grand Vacations Company, LLC was honored with the 2007 Corporate Partner Award; WMMO 98.9 was honored with the 2007 Media Partner Award; and the 2007 Heart for the Homeless Award was presented in memory of Susan B. Levy.

The event was hosted by WKMG Local 6 anchor Lauren Rowe and MIX 105.1 morning show host Erica Lee. An added feature was the brightly colored tee-shirt display, designed and created by female victims and survivors as part of the international Clothesline Project. The Clothesline Project helps educate the community about the extent of violence against women.

In addition to Insight Financial Credit Union, other major sponsors included WKMG Local 6, MIX 105.1, First Monday Magazine, Harriett Lake, Junior League of Greater Orlando, Rosen Centre Hotel, First Baptist Church of Orlando, and Discovery Church. Both the Orange County and City of Orlando governments were represented at the event; with Mayor Buddy Dyer proclaiming November 27th as "Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida Day presented by Insight Financial Credit Union."

Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida is the largest provider of homeless services in Central Florida. This non-profit organization works to address the needs of the homeless in the community and serves as a catalyst for community collaboration to end homelessness by offering comprehensive case management programs to help the homeless become self-sufficient. In the most recent fiscal year, the Coalition served more than 310,000 meals and provided over 227,000 nights of shelter to homeless individuals

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