Blue Ribbon Gala

Saving our community’s most vulnerable children

In early 2023, while just two months pregnant, Mariella found herself in a position no one should ever face. The father of her child attempted to take this young woman’s life. It was the latest episode in an endless cycle of abuse.

With only $100 dollars and the clothes on her back, Mariella courageously fled. Unfortunately, her friends were afraid to house and care for her. They knew of the violence her former partner was capable of. With no other choice, she bounced around several shelters in downtown San Diego.

Fortunately, she learned about Home Start’s domestic violence survivor supportive housing program. Soon after, she was given the key to her very own unit in one of Home Start’s newest housing properties. For the first time, Mariella felt safe and at peace. A few months later, her son was born happy and healthy. He is now five months old and thriving!

Mariella shares that she is most grateful for the support of her Case Manager, Jordan. Together they are working on her personal goals for a brighter future, which include going back to work soon. Mariella also gives credit to her Home Start Parenting Class teacher Emily. As a first-time mother, the information and support from Emily has been incredible. She has been overjoyed watching her son reach so many crucial milestones and capturing all the memories on her phone.

Be a part of helping more families like this by attending Home Start’s Blue Ribbon Gala on Saturday April 27th at The US Grant, downtown San Diego. This is San Diego’s premier fundraiser for child abuse prevention and raises critical dollars for Home Start to serve our community’s most vulnerable children and families. The evening will feature powerful stories of lives changed like Mariella’s, a three-course dinner, auction excitement, live entertainment, and dancing.

For more information or to purchase your tickets today please visit  www.blueribbongala.com