Over $1.3 Million Raised for Child Victims of Abuse at Kristi House’s 2024 Gala
Donations from the Event Benefit Victims of Child Abuse and Child Sex Trafficking
MIAMI, FL (April 13, 2024) — Kristi House, Inc., the Children’s Advocacy Center for all of Miami-Dade County, raised $1,350,000 for specialized services for victims of child abuse, sex trafficking and other trauma its annual gala on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel.
Bomnin Automotive served as the Title Sponsor and Goya as the Presenting Sponsor. Other lead support came from the Anthony R. Abraham Foundation and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Upon arrival, guests adorned feathered headpieces and boas, setting the stage for a vibrant cocktail reception featuring libations graciously provided by Republic National Distributing Company. Energetic samba dancers and a lively Conga Line-style band brought the Carnaval theme to life.
The auction featured planes, yachts, automobiles and VIP sports experiences. A week aboard a luxury yacht for 10 with complete crew and chef, a 2024 Stingray Chevrolet Corvette, private plane charter hours and not-sold-in-stores sporting experiences made for a lively, competitive and lucrative auction.
Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III was named Kristi House’s second “Crusader of the Year” for his ongoing dedication to Miami-Dade County’s children. Kristi House Board President Alan Potamkin presented the award and told guests, “when you think of a Crusader, you think of Chairman Gilbert…he’s out front, carrying the flag for our children and helping us serve our mission.”
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniela Levine Cava said, “Kristi House gives children and families who are experiencing the hardest times in their lives, like those who have experienced sexual abuse, trafficking, and other trauma, a safe place to go and heal. Chairman Gilbert is a true investor in young people.”
Kristi House’s inaugural honoree, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle said, “I’m very happy for Chairman Gilbert, he so deserves this. He’s so embracing of Kristi House and all children. He recognizes the trauma that they suffer. He recognizes that we need to have trauma-based treatment for children who are sexually abused, for children who grow up in violent homes. He recognizes that and he does more, he invests in that.”
“Our community of donors, partners, and volunteers continues to support Kristi House’s mission with incredible kindness and generosity”, CEO Amanda Altman shared in her visionary address. “Their dedication to our cause speaks volumes about the impact of our work and we are honored by their commitment to children and families healing from the traumas of abuse and trafficking.”
Kristi House announced its next gala will be held May 11, 2025, at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel.
