Press Release
Laura's House continues to be an active advocate for domestic violence awareness. Peruse the various platforms that we have recently been involved in, creating awareness and highlighting this important issue.
Laura's House Applauds Supreme Court Decision Upholding Gun Law Protecting Domestic Violence Survivors
Statement from Margaret Bayston, Executive Director and CEO of Laura's House
ALISO VIEJO, Calif., June 21, 2024 — Today, the United States Supreme Court upheld a crucial federal law that prohibits individuals under domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms. This landmark decision reaffirms the importance of protecting survivors of domestic violence from further harm.
Margaret Bayston, Executive Director and CEO of Laura’s House, issued the following statement:
“The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the federal law barring firearm possession by individuals under domestic violence restraining orders is a monumental step in ensuring the safety and protection of survivors. Every day, we are reminded of the critical importance of believing victims and survivors of domestic violence and taking decisive action to prevent them from being further victimized.
For 30 years, Laura’s House has been at the forefront of providing essential services and support to survivors in Orange County. The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the need for comprehensive measures to protect the most vulnerable. We urge community leaders, policymakers, and the public to recognize the ongoing crisis of domestic violence and to support local organizations like Laura’s House in their efforts to provide safety, resources, and hope to survivors.
This decision is a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of upholding laws that safeguard those at risk. We must continue to listen to victims the first time they speak up and respond effectively and compassionately to their needs to prevent further harm.
In adopting their stance, the Supreme Court affirms that we cannot silence victims. Their courage to share their experiences galvanizes many in our community to seek help and break the silence. Every time a prominent domestic violence case trends, we see a significant increase in calls to our 24/7 domestic violence hotline and a rise in shelter residency.
Just recently, we fielded a 20% increase in calls to our 24/7 domestic violence hotline and a 20% rise in shelter residency since video footage surfaced showing Sean “Diddy” Combs allegedly physically assaulting his former partner Cassie Ventura and the subsequent tide of other domestic violence and human trafficking allegations from other women.
About Laura’s House:
Laura's House provides unduplicated domestic violence-related services to the 3.18 million residents of Orange County, California, and beyond. Over 30 years, Laura's House has provided support services and shelter to more than 7,500 women, men, and children. They have also offered counseling, life skills education and legal advocacy to over 77,000 individuals. To learn more, visit laurashouse.org or call the 24/7 hotline at 866-498-1511 for emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, legal advocacy, and outreach.
Media Contact:
Cara R. Stewart
Altalunas International for Laura’s House
+1 949-290-5563
cara@altalunas.com
2024 BRIGHTER FUTURES LUNCHEON SUCCESS:
LAURA'S HOUSE EXCEEDS FUNDRAISING GOAL BY 35%, RAISING $203,000
Attended by nearly 300 business and community leaders, Brighter Futures spotlighted the critical issue of teen dating violence, emphasizing the dangers posed by online predators
ALISO VIEJO, Calif., May 10, 2024 — Laura's House has reached a fundraising milestone by raising $203,000 at its Brighter Futures Luncheon at the Balboa Bay Resort, exceeding the goal of $150,000 by more than a third. The funds will support its H.E.A.R.T. (Healthy Emotions & Attitudes in Relationships Today) program, which provides essential education to prevent teen dating violence and empower youth in Orange County.
The May 10, 2024, event began with a spirits tasting courtesy of Ketel One and Nolet's and an exclusive shopping experience with Cason Couture. Guests also enjoy exceptional opportunities with Coco Blanc Teeth Whitening and a silent auction featuring luxury goods and experiences, which included a Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club two-night getaway, a David Yurman pearl-and-pave diamond set and a Janet Jackson with Nelly experience at The Pond for six people.
The luncheon opened with a heartfelt welcome from Laura Khouri, Laura's House board vice chair and Western National Property Management president. Attendees enjoyed a gourmet lunch featuring a Garden Salad, Flat Iron Steak, Grilled Tofu, and Madagascar vanilla panna cotta for dessert.
"The success of the Brighter Futures Luncheon exemplifies the power of community coming together for a vital cause,” said Laura's House CEO/Executive Director Margaret Bayston. “We are deeply grateful to all our supporters, especially Western National Property Management and Laura Khouri, for their unwavering commitment to ending domestic violence and empowering the next generation."
The awards ceremony honored community heroes for their contributions. Voluspa received the Brighter Futures Award, Kai Yamamoto was honored with the Youth Leader Award, and Aaron Kokx was presented with the Prevention Leader Award. Laura's House Director of Education & Outreach, Veronica Stephens, delivered a keynote address on the digital dangers teens face today and the importance of fostering healthy relationships
"Today's teens and young adults are navigating an incredibly complex and often dangerous landscape. They're inundated with issues like domestic violence and online sexual content, with terms like 'sexting' and 'NP4NP' becoming part of their everyday vocabulary. It's crucial for parents to understand these risks and have open conversations with their children. That's why our H.E.A.R.T. program is so essential—it equips young people with the knowledge and skills to foster healthy relationships and protect themselves from harm," Stephens said.
Laura's House extends recognition to the sponsors of Brighter Futures for their unwavering support, including Western National Property Management, Alek and Katelyn Henka, Jamie Born/The Jacqueline M. Glass Family, Brenda Zalke, Haskell & White, HOPE Team Table, IHP and Sharon Pozos, Jim Murray Roofing Inc., Linda Lam, Aviso Legal Group LLP, Melissa Olson and R.D. Olson, Merrill Lynch and Maureen Tschopp, Melba Flinton, Patty Bucklen, Patty Cyr, Troy Arntsen and Voluspa. In addition, Laura's House congratulates the captivating tablescape designers who brought the theme of Brighter Futures to life: Aviso Legal Group LLP, Christina Robbins and Richard Ruelas, Fiona Harms, Couture Flowers, HOPE Team, Kim Murray, Lisa Matar, Liz Eastin, Patty Bucklen, Talin Balta Interiors, Voluspa, Western National Property Management, White Sakuras Floral Design and Yucca Fins.
A dedicated team of volunteers produces the annual Brighter Futures luncheon. Led by Chair Patty Bucklen, the 2024 Event Committee included Suzy Betz, Lauren Chang, Liz Eastin, Nancy Fitzgerald, Annabella Galdamez, Alexandra Hart, Michele Kader, Lisa Matar, Andrea McCallister, Melissa Olson and Christina Robbins.
About Laura’s House:
Laura's House provides unduplicated domestic violence-related services to the 3.18 million residents of Orange County, California, and beyond. Over 30 years, Laura's House has provided support services and shelter to more than 7,500 women, men, and children. They have also offered counseling, life skills education and legal advocacy to over 77,000 individuals. To learn more, visit laurashouse.org or call the 24/7 hotline at 866-498-1511 for emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, legal advocacy, and outreach.
Media Contact:
Cara R. Stewart, Altalunas International, cara@altalunas.com or 949-290-5563