La Posada Providencia’s third annual Hands & Hearts brunch, held on January 26, was a resounding success, raising nearly $36,000 to support our program! Approximately 250 supporters of La Posada gathered to support our shelter and celebrate its mission of providing safety and hope to new immigrants and asylum seekers.

Letty Garza of KRGV Channel 5 was the emcee of the event, with the Texas Sweethearts providing musical entertainment. The event boasted a live auction, a 130-item silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, a Purse Boutique with mystery prizes worth up to $100 inside each purse, and a Wishing Wall with opportunities for supporters to “purchase” shelter supplies for La Posada.

This year’s Hands & Hearts brunch also provided many profoundly moving moments. La Posada client Marvin, from Guatemala, told his story of escaping an abusive family situation at 15 and embarking on a harrowing journey north to the United States to make a new life here. When he arrived at La Posada last June, Marvin did not speak English, but set high goals for himself: to become fluent in English, go to a university and become a lawyer. Over the last six months, he has won the hearts of everyone at La Posada with his exceptional hard work, tremendous sense of grace and open heart. He is already fluent in English and preparing to move on to pursue his dreams in Charlotte, N.C.

A second very moving moment occurred when Janet Pena-Rasmussen, the 11-year-old daughter of La Posada Client Coordinator Monica Pena-Rasmussen, won over $600 in the 50/50 raffle. Moments later, proud mother Monica came to the podium with tears in her eyes to announce that Janet wished to donate her prize money to La Posada.

With love and gratitude in our hearts, we would like to thank you all who gave us your hands by participating in La Posada Providencia’s Hands & Hearts brunch this year!

Action 4 Sunrise Interview

Board Chair Debbie Grayson and Board Member Abilgail Molina were featured on Action 4 Sunrise on Friday, January 18 promoting this year’s event.