While this year has brought much uncertainty and many challenges, there have been some silver linings in this, Kristi House’s 25th 𝑆𝑖𝑙𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝐴𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑎𝑟𝑦 year. Our 14th Annual Breaking the Silence Luncheon presented by The Ortega Foundation went virtual on October 29, but still delivered inspirational messages of healing and triumph. Supporters enjoyed cuisine from Chef Michael Schwartz delivered to them safely at home, along with 𝐾𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑖 𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝐶𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑠 𝐵𝑎𝑔s of specially curated items for pandemic and green living.

Emmy award-winning television journalist and veteran reporter, Ileana Bravo anchored the luncheon, lending her incredible talent and expertise to help us break the silence. The luncheon was chaired by a dynamic team of community leaders Priscilla Marrero, Angelica Santibañez and Gloria Fonts Suarez.

The Ortega Foundation took the lead again this year as Presenting Sponsor, with BAC Florida and Royal Caribbean Cruises LTD as Major Sponsors. Republic National Distributing Company was our Beverage sponsor, and Vecinos Market and CreativeOnDemand (C.O.D.) provided video and production services. Other lead sponsors included Jills Zeder Group, Marin Eljaiek Lopez Martinez, Commissioner Sally Heyman, Shook Hardy & Bacon, Regions Bank, Fran & Howard Feinberg and Juliana & Alex Krys.

Guests heard from the namesake of Kristi House, Kristi herself, who shared her story of trauma to triumph and how she found healing at Kristi House long after her childhood suffering. Another child sexual abuse survivor, Luis, shared his very personal and harrowing story of recovering from abuse from a predator finding him online. CEO Amanda Altman provided updates on Kristi House, the pandemic, and why support for children facing trauma is more important now than ever.

Thanks to the generosity of our caring community, Kristi House raised $102,000 to sustain services to our most vulnerable children during this challenging year.

Funds raised at our luncheon are going toward critical Kristi House programs and services including supplies to keep clients and staff safe from COVID-19, while expanding our support to address the new and increased needs of our families.