Mattie Williams Fundraiser Nets Nearly $9,000

Saturday was a terrific night for two of Safety Harbor’s crown jewels, as a holiday fundraiser collected thousands of dollars for the Mattie Williams Neighborhood Family Center while showcasing the newly remodeled Museum and Cultural Center.

The sixth annual Wreath, Toys and Joys event, which raises money for the neighborhood center through a wreath auction, marked the first time the venue has been open to the public since an extensive remodel of the facility began earlier this year.

“One reason we decided to have the event so early this year was so we could be in here first,” Mattie Williams executive director Janet Hooper said. “They were generous enough to donate the use of the facility, so that really cut down on our costs.” 

While donations were poring in in the form of bids for holiday wreaths designed by members of the community, accolades were pouring for the re-purposed museum, with guests praising everything from its practical but stylish stone floors to the classy exterior.

“Has anybody been in this building before tonight?” Mayor Andy Steingold asked prior to emceeing the wreath auction. “What a beautiful facility ... and what a great job the city has done getting this facility ready for tonight.”

But amid all the love for the museum, Steingold quickly reminded everybody about the real purpose of the event.

“We’re here for the kids, so keep that in mind when you’re bidding on wreaths.”

Other civic leaders, organizations and businesses donated wreaths, money and/or materials to the event, including 8th Avenue Pub, Dr. John Sullivan, the Rotary Club of Safety Harbor, Green Springs Bistro and Dr. David Becker.

After all the wreaths were sold, including one designed by City Commissioner Nancy Besore that went for $180, and all the silent auction donations counted, Hooper said the event raised almost $9,000 for the center. 

“Our wreath event raised approximately $9,000; we are still hopeful for a couple of additional donations to put us over $10,000,” Hooper said via email. “That is about what we raised last year.” 

She went on to praise the city and the cultural center for their support.

“We are appreciative to the City and the Museum for letting us use the facility at no charge, which allows us to provide Christmas to more children,” she wrote. 

“Our net will be higher this year because we did not have to pay for the facility and food.”