TOLEDO, Ohio — The nonprofit organization Open Arms Transformation Living, or OATL, has been working to curb the problems of homeless youth, teen dating violence and human trafficking for years.
OATL founder Fonda Royster said being able to provide young girls ages 12 to 20 years old with basic essentials and support has been a joy. But, it hasn't always been easy financially, which is why she's hosting a fundraising gala.
"We provide basic essentials, free, basic essentials, free clothing, free hygiene products, and things of that nature," Royster said. "We also are seeking funding for a building. I became aware this summer, some of the young ladies that reached out to us expressed that they wanted to be involved with us. But, because we run out of libraries, they don't feel safe. They have abusive partners and they have pimps and these libraries are public spaces."
It's why the capital fundraising gala, Brick by Brick, is being hosted at The Premier banquet hall on Thursday, Nov. 7. The plated dinner will feature guest speaker, University of Toledo's Dr. Celia Williamson, talking about the reality of human trafficking in Northwest Ohio. Dr. Williamson is the Executive Director, Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute.
The event will be hosted by WTOL 11's TaTiana Cash as Emcee, and attendees will be able to enjoy a silent auction and raffles. Royster said she's beyond excited to work towards raising funds aimed a purchasing a private location to house all the items needed for girls who come to OTAL for help. This would open a second youth shelter in Lucas County, where girls could take a break, possibly shower, make new connections, or just have a place to safely rest.
Royster said if these girls don't have a place to get help, they suffer in silence and risk the likelihood of something even worse happening to them.
"Let's break it down. 2000 homeless kids live in Lucas County. Approximately 120 of those kids, they are by themselves, meaning they have to navigate on their own. Try to figure out, 'how I'm gonna eat? Where am I gonna stay?'" Royster said.
She said Open Arms Transformation Living is about helping the thousands of kids who may be over looked by everyone else. To learn more about OATL, or the upcoming fundraiser, or more information about area resources for teens in crisis, click here.
