After the Coronavirus cancelled an event last April and Hurricane Sally wiped out another in the fall, “Be My Valentine” to benefit Mary’s Shelter Gulf Coast was a success, despite the cold and sometimes rainy weather.

The winner of the $10,000 prize is Priscilla McDonough. More than 300 individuals purchased draw down tickets.

The draw down combined sponsors and individual ticket purchasers to help the Elberta home for homeless, pregnant women. The event included virtual and in-person excitement for the drawing of the $10,000 prize. It also provided a video tour of the home and interviews of mothers and volunteers. Entertainer Shane Tucker provided musical entertainment.

Opened in 2006, Mary’s Shelter has housed dozens of moms, their new babies and older children. The 24-hour facility provides a safe home as well as counseling to help the residents set goals for their future.

Volunteers help with transportation to doctor visits, jobs and classes to provide better job opportunities. Others help with babysitting and upkeep of the facility.

Sue, one of the volunteers, says, “At Mary's Shelter, I receive satisfaction that I can apply my skills, talents and interests to the lives of young women who are striving for a successful, independent life style.”

Those who are interested in volunteering may call 251-982-6200 or visit the website, maryssheltergulfcoast.org to sign up. Click on “Volunteer” on the left side of the page.

Mary’s Shelter thanks the “Be My Valentine” sponsors. Platinum sponsors are Holy Spirit Episcopal Church, Hoods Home Center, Bob and Terry Barnett, Msgr. Frederick Brice Foundation, The Matthew Flanigan Family and Joe and Mary Lou Roskowski.

Gold Sponsors include Norman and Jeanne Franz, Gulf Shores Woman’s Club, Centennial Bank, Knights of Columbus Council 10903, and Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church.

Silver sponsors are St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church, St. Andrew by the Sea Community Church, DeSoto’s Seafood Restaurant, Knights of Columbus Council 13339, Knights of Columbus Council 2117, and St. Michael Catholic High School.

Bronze sponsors include John and Sue Koehn, Cameron and Stacy Rodgers, Realtors, Keller Williams Realty Gulf Coast, Christ the King Ladies Sodality, Ferrell Family Dental, Malcolm Biedekapp and Mary Ann Moore, Daniel and Verna Duchesneau and Kitty’s Kafe.