Alys Beach, Florida - (April 21, 2009) - Times are tough all over, and Okaloosa and Walton Counties have certainly been far from immune to the worldwide economic turmoil. But tough times haven't prevented local businesses from making generous donations for a worthy cause, say organizers of an upcoming charity event.

"We're so humbled by the generous donations that we've received," said Kate Johnson, Director of Children's Volunteer Health Network (CVHN), a local faith-based non-profit organization that provides free medical, dental and mental health care for uninsured children in Okaloosa and Walton Counties. "Over fifty items have been donated, including a $6,900 sapphire and diamond pendant from Kent Ltd., a YOLO stand-up paddle board, a $2,500 sunset sailing cruise for 75 people, a $2,500 gift certificate from Village Boutique, a one-week dream vacation in St. Barths, and so much more."

 

And the timing could not be more critical. For example, the Okaloosa Dental Department (ODD) routinely treats children in desperate need of help, but they don't employ the specialists that are required for certain procedures.

"It's pretty bleak, as we're inundated right now with root canals and other procedures that require endodontists or oral surgeons," said Johnson. "They've asked if they need to stop sending children to us, but we told them to keep sending them -- we'll try to help as many kids as possible. Even now though, they're only sending us the very worst cases."

The fundraiser will be held on Saturday, May 2nd at "Caliza," a restaurant and pool in Alys Beach on Scenic Highway 30A. Organizers said that the party will feature music, dancing, Latin dance performances, and Latin-inspired hor’dourves, all donated by local restaurants such as Bud & Alley’s Taco Bar, Caliza Restaurant, Fatty Patty’s, George’s at Alys Beach, Jo Jo’s Catering, La Botana, Pizza by the Sea and Shades at the Loop.

"Even during tough times, these wonderful business and individuals have remembered that there are others who have it so much worse," said Johnson. "Their donations will help so many local children who simply can't afford the proper healthcare that they need and deserve."

 

Tickets for the charity party are $50 in advance and can be purchased at Pizza by the Sea and Movies by the Sea in WaterColor Crossings, Village Boutique in Redfish Village, Coastal Bank & Trust (near Mid-Bay Bridge), online at www.cvhnkids.org or by calling CVHN at 850-622-3200. Tickets will cost $65 at the door. Hor'dourves are included in the ticket price, and a cash bar will feature margaritas, wine, beer and other cocktails. Party attire is resort casual.

For more information about CVHN's Dos de Mayo party, please all 850-622-3200 or visit www.cvhnkids.org.

 

ABOUT CHILDREN'S VOLUNTEER HEALTH NETWORK (CVHN)
Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Inc., HEALTHY HAPPY KIDS, is a faith-based 501(c)3 organization established in 2005 to enhance the lives of uninsured and underinsured school-aged children by facilitating free, immediate access to medical, dental and mental health care. For more information please visit www.cvhnkids.org.