The 6th annual Be My Valentine event raised several thousand dollars to support homeless pregnant women who choose life for their unborn children at Mary’s Shelter Gulf Coast.

Mary’s Shelter, which opened in 2006, has provided safe housing for dozens of mothers, their newborns and older children. The 24-hour facility offers a secure home and counseling to help residents set goals for their future.

Organizers expressed gratitude to all who donated and to the event’s sponsors, including Joe and Kristin Babington, Bella Beach Properties LLC, Christian Life The Island Church, The Community Foundation of South Alabama, Cromeans Charity Foundation, Dolphins Down Under LLC, Ebert Agency Inc., Judie Flanigan, Gulf Babe Wine Boutique, Holy Spirit Episcopal Church and David Karam. Additional sponsors included Kitty’s Kafe Inc., Knights of Columbus #7402, Roy Lamm, Our Lady of the Gulf Altar Society, Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church, Our Savior Catholic Church, Riviera Stoneworks, South Baldwin Podiatry, St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church, St. Michael the Archangel Parish and St. Thomas by the Sea Altar Rosary Society.

The organization also appreciated Tom Gordon, American Legion Post 99 in Foley, Coastal Alabama Community College School of Culinary Arts, Joe Roszkowski, everyone who donated items for the live and silent auctions, and those who purchased event tickets.

Mary’s Shelter plans to expand its services with a transitional housing program that will build three homes to accommodate mothers and children after leaving the shelter. The program aims to help residents eventually purchase homes of their own.

Volunteers provide transportation to doctor appointments, jobs and classes, assist with childcare and help maintain the facility. Opportunities are also available at the Gulf Coast Thrift Store in Elberta. For more information, visit www.maryssheltergulfcoast.org or call (251) 986-6200.