Norma's House to host BINGO, Bags & Badges Fundraiser

GONZALES — Every lady loves handbags and hunks, so what could be more exciting than hunks and  handbags? A handbag modeled by a hunk – in uniform.

Gonzales area first responders have teamed up with Norma's House, otherwise known as Gonzales Regional Children's Advocacy Center – which serves the children of Gonzales County and Lavaca County – is gearing up for the center's big annual fundraiser.

Proceeds from the BINGO, Bags & Badges are slated to provide counseling for children who have fallen victim to physical abuse and sexual assault.

Last year alone, Norma's House served 225 children, conducted 178 forensic interviews, provided therapy for 75 children, provided therapy for 38 adults and made 35 SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examination) visits possible.

A forensic interview is conducted by specially-trained advocates, in cooperation with Child Protective Services (CPS) and local law enforcement agencies, who do interviews with child victims of sexual assault and child abuse. These video-recorded interview serves as the voice of the child, to reduce the number of times they have to rehash details of their abuse.

Norma's House believes counseling, by licensed counselors, for victims of violent crimes is essential to provide much-needed understanding and support – and to reduce trauma.

Bingo, Bags & Badges is scheduled from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 25 at The J.B. Wells Expo Center.

Tickets for the 18-and-up event are $30 in advance and $40 at the door and include admission, snacks and one bingo card. Additional BINGO cards are $20 each.

In addition to 20 games of BINGO there will be a silent auction and a cash bar.

Tickets are available online, at www.normashouse.net, at Norma's House and from board members.

For more information call Norma's House, at 830-672-1278.