Providing Families Hope, a fundraiser featuring Elisabeth von Trapp, raised more than $70,000 to help Catholic Charities St. Anthony Family Shelter this past Friday night at the Beech Activity Center. Over 275 people attended the event. 
The emcee for the evening was Wayne Bryan of Music Theatre of Wichita. As host, Bryan offered a pair of premium seats for the Music Theatre season to the highest bidder. The item brought in over $500 for the shelter.
“At this point in the year, we are pleased with the results of this event,” said Cynthia N. Colbert, Executive Director of Catholic Charities. “In times like these every dollar matters to everyone, and we are grateful that our supporters give generously to the operations of the shelter and that we could provide them with wonderful entertainment from Elisabeth in return.”
The trip was truly special for von Trapp as she mentioned to several during her stay that never has she felt more a part of the community when out on a tour stop. A Catholic Charities’ agency was one of the first to assist her family when her grandparents Maria and Baron von Trapp settled in the United States many years ago. She continues today to share their story through music and her faith when traveling to shows throughout the year. “I felt welcome in Wichita from the moment I arrived, until the moment I returned home,” she said. “It was a special gift to come to this event and support St. Anthony Family Shelter.”
Catholic Charities St. Anthony Family Shelter provides food, shelter and support to homeless families in the community. In 2010, the shelter provided over 175 families made up of over 400 children a safe place to stay. The new facility, built in 2007, allows 24 percent more occupancy than the old shelter with room for 13 families at a time.
Prize Drawing
Prize drawings included a signed NIT champion basketball from the Wichita State men’s basketball team, a gift basket with $500 VISA gift card from Catholic Family Federal Credit Union, as well as numerous restaurant gift certificates from donors around Wichita.