Hearts in Service Association, a nonprofit organization serving the community in vital areas of need since 2004, will host its 22nd annual Motherhood Luncheon on Sunday, honoring five women in the Virgin Islands community.
The luncheon is scheduled for 1 to 5 p.m. at New Victor’s Hideout in Sub Base on St. Thomas with keynote speaker Sen. Carla J. Joseph.
Since its founding in 2004, HISA has operated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to supporting the social and economic well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness, youths that exited the foster home system, and high-risk families impacted by poverty, unemployment, limited affordable housing, family disruptions, victims of domestic violence, veterans, and restricted access to healthcare, according to a press release announcing the event.
Five exceptional mothers who have profoundly influenced many lives will be recognized during the luncheon. The theme for this year is “Mothers of Faith and Love,” which highlights mothers whose humility, perseverance, faith, love, courage, and sincerity inspire the entire community, the release stated.
This year’s exceptional mothers to be honored are:
- Gloria Gumbs
- Anique Harrigan
- Annette Hendrickson
- Louise Jennings
- Cheryl Thomas
“The annual Motherhood Luncheon serves as one of the association’s most significant fundraising events of the year,” according to the release. “This program will showcase each honoree’s remarkable stories, emphasizing their influence, dedication to raising and nurturing children, and steadfast commitment to the community. Mothers are the cornerstone of any society, government, and economy, working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for others. Their role is one of unparalleled selflessness and care, and nothing compares to a mother’s compassion and love.”
Sunday’s event is also dedicated to supporting initiatives related to HISA’s transitional housing facility, as well as covering other service-supportive costs.
“Currently, HISA has built three transitional homes for the homeless that are currently occupied. Our goal is to build a One-Stop Transitional Housing Facility at a cost of $4 million and to renovate and operate a one-stop centralized outreach center at a cost of $1.7 million,” said Beverly Stephens-Samuel, HISA’s executive director.
Homelessness is not only individuals who we see at Emancipation Garden, on the Waterfront, or around the island, but individuals and families who temporarily reside in the homes of other family members and friends, the press release noted.
“Please bring out your family to this important fundraising event. Children bring out your mothers and grandmothers, husbands bring out your wives to celebrate motherhood. Whether you purchase a Mother’s Day event ticket, advertise in our Commemorative Booklet, or help as a patron, your SUPPORT of this event is essential to achieving our cause and helping Virgin Islands families,” it said.
HISA organizers are also encouraging businesses to support the event by sponsoring a mother or a woman who represents the role of a mother to attend the event. Businesses can also donate funds directly to the organization.
Tickets can be purchased at the following outlets: Sweet Stick Party Supply Store in Barbel Plaza; Sole to Soul Shoe Boutique on Store Taver Gade, downtown; the Hearts in Service Association office in Fosters Plaza, and the Honorees.
Adults must purchase their tickets from the honorees and the outlets. Ticket prices are $80 for adults. Please purchase tickets for children under 12 ($45) at the door.
For further information on the Mother’s Day Motherhood Luncheon or for more details on HISA, contact Beverly Stephens-Samuel at 340-690-4313 or Sophia Archibald at 340-998-2733.
