The Halo Ball, an annual event on the BaptistCare calendar, raises much-needed funds for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
Expertly guided by Natarsha Belling, over 550 people were wowed with showstopping performances and challenged by the heartbreaking impact of domestic violence on families.
The evening opened with a breathtaking performance from electric violinist Isabel. Samantha Jade got everyone dancing with her powerful vocals, and Modern Vintage closed out the evening with a dynamic performance that had people rushing to the dancefloor.
Amid the glamour of the night, the sobering reality of the domestic and family violence epidemic facing the country remained front of mind.
This crisis is deeply personal for BaptistCare. The Halo Ball was born after a much-loved employee was murdered in a tragic incident of domestic and family violence in 2015. The crisis has only deepened in recent years. Incidents of domestic violence are rising across the country. The last two years alone have seen the most dramatic increase. Nearly 130 women have lost their lives to domestic violence. The problem is more widespread than the data suggests, with incidents of domestic violence under-reported by as much as 60%.
These numbers paint a confronting picture, Charles Moore, BaptistCare CEO, challenged the audience to consider, saying, ‘We can all do something to bring about change’.
Guests met this challenge with remarkable generosity. With record corporate sponsorships and abundant giving on the night, the Halo Ball is on track to raise over $547,000 for HopeStreet.
Funds will support domestic and family violence programs, assisting women and children to build lives with dignity and strength through counselling, empathy and empowerment.
Expanding the work of HopeStreet is only possible because of the incredible sponsors, companies and individuals that partner with BaptistCare. Because of their giving, we see what’s possible when compassion meets action. To everyone who supports the work of HopeStreet, thank you for your generosity and commitment to this vital cause.
Together we can help end the cycle of abuse and build safer families.
You can find out more about the work of HopeStreet or follow them on social media.
