Haven House Presents Sophistication at Sundown: Fundraising for a Cause
Keeping the Doors Open for Women and Children Seeking Safety
For women and children experiencing domestic violence, having a safe place to turn can make a life-changing difference. On Open Your Eyes, Marilyn Dawson Aspinall, Second Vice President of Haven House, joined the conversation to highlight the shelter’s work in supporting survivors and the importance of continued community involvement.
Established in 1993, Haven House has spent more than three decades providing shelter and support to women and children fleeing domestic violence. Aspinall explained that the service operates through referrals from the Department of Gender Affairs, formerly known as the Women’s Department. Women make the decision to access the shelter, often arriving with their children, who are also provided with a safe environment.
The shelter can accommodate up to three families at a time, with stays that may last a month or longer, depending on individual circumstances and needs. However, its work extends beyond providing temporary accommodation.
Support That Goes Beyond Shelter
Aspinall explained that Haven House works alongside other agencies to help women rebuild their lives and establish greater independence after leaving the shelter.
While staying there, women have access to classes where they can develop new skills, as well as assistance with job placement. These services are intended to help survivors improve their circumstances and reduce the likelihood of returning to situations where their safety is at risk.
Over the years, more than 1,000 individuals have accessed the shelter’s services. Aspinall also emphasized that the location of Haven House is kept confidential for the protection of the women and children staying there. Only staff and those directly involved in providing or receiving the service know where it is located.
She shared that some former residents have publicly described Haven House as having saved their lives, while others have spoken about receiving a new opportunity to rebuild and do something for themselves.
Sophistication at Sundown: Fundraising for a Cause
To help sustain these essential services, Haven House is introducing a new fundraising event, Sophistication at Sundown, taking place on Saturday, November 14, at the Civic Center in Belize City.
Making its debut this year, the event is designed around retro vibes, good music, and an opportunity for adults to enjoy an evening of entertainment while supporting an important cause.
Guests can look forward to five DJs, with Charms Garcia serving as host. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, and the event will take place from 8:00 PM to midnight in an intimate setup on the Civic Center court.
General admission tickets cost $41, with each ticket including one drink. Cocktail tables are also available for $75, giving groups an opportunity to enjoy the evening together. Tickets can be purchased through the QuickPass app or at the door, although early purchase is encouraged because spaces are limited.
Wearing Orange for Awareness and Action
The event’s orange theme carries a message beyond its visual appeal. Orange represents hope and is the designated color associated with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Aspinall encouraged the public to wear orange in support of the cause, but emphasized that not having orange clothing should not prevent anyone from attending. The larger purpose is to bring people together and raise funds to help keep the shelter operating.
She also shared that Haven House will be offering ticket giveaways through its social media platforms in the days leading up to the event.
Community Support Keeps the Shelter Available
During the conversation, Aspinall reflected on what motivated her involvement with Haven House. Growing up on the Southside of Belize City, she witnessed domestic violence in her community and became interested in the organization long before officially joining its work. Her personal experiences inspired her to learn more about the shelter and find ways to advocate for the service.
Her message was clear: supporting Haven House means helping ensure that women and children have somewhere to turn when home is no longer safe.
Through Sophistication at Sundown, the organization hopes to raise the resources needed to continue providing shelter, assistance, and opportunities for survivors to rebuild their lives. The public is encouraged to purchase tickets, attend the event, and support the ongoing work of Haven House.