House of Mercy Enterprises will host its annual gala on Friday, Sept. 18 from 6-8 p.m. at the Olney Civic Center at 210 S. Grand Ave. File photo by Will Sadler

House of Mercy Invites Olney to 8th Annual Gala

Olney residents are invited to gather in support of House of Mercy Enterprises (HOME) at its 8th Annual Gala on Friday, Sept. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Olney Civic Center, 210 S. Grand Ave.

The evening will feature a free meal, a silent auction, and a raffle with two standout prizes: a Henry Golden Boy .22 Long Rifle and a Henry Golden Boy .17 HMR. Proceeds from the gala will benefit HOME’s Bible-based human development program, which has an 85 percent fiveyear success rate in helping Texans overcome substance abuse.

This year’s silent auction is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, thanks to the generosity of local donors. Items include: Southern Bleachers – aluminum picnic table Paw-Stihl – chainsaw Ace Hardware – Craftsman drill set United Supermarkets – chiminea Wing & a Prayer – gift basket and tumbler Potter’s Pizza – free buffet tickets Salon 525 – gift card for services Tractor Supply – pillow and mug Last year’s gala highlighted HOME’s volunteers and staff, who urged attendees to give their “time, talent, and treasure” to the program. Volunteers such as John and Jan Crow, Mike and Martha Green, and John and Becky Garvey shared how working with residents not only supports recovery but also enriches their own lives.

Pastor Harrell Braddock Jr., a founding member of the HOME team, said he remains committed because, “I love a success story. I love to meet people where they are and help them to change.”

Organizers encourage everyone to buy tickets, donate auction items, and attend the gala to ensure the program continues to serve residents who cannot otherwise afford treatment.

“The gala allows us to showcase the work we do and raise money to cover the costs of treating people who cannot pay,” said director Preston Crow.