Fundraising event to be held April 11 at 7 p.m. at the Look Park Garden House

FLORENCE – Friends of Children will hold its third annual Red Shoe Ball on Friday, April 11 at 7 p.m. at the Garden House in Look Memorial Park.

The event is a benefit for Friends of Children, an organization that advocates for abused and neglected children, many of whom are in foster care. This year is the 25th anniversary for the nonprofit, and Easthampton Savings Bank has provided lead sponsorship for the event.

Jane Lyons, the organization’s Executive Director, said the ball got its name from Dorothy’s red ruby slippers in the Wizard of Oz because, “Children in foster care long for a home they can call their own. For them, there is indeed no place like home.”

Highlights of the Red Shoe Ball include a signature cocktail designed by Hope and Olive of Greenfield, music dejayed by Joan Holliday of WRSI, dancing and live and silent auctions.

A photographer will be on hand, and attendees can pose for photos. A “Best In Shoe” contest is also offered.

Items to be auctioned include: a week each in vacation homes in St. Croix, Vieques, Puerto Rico, Truro and Greenwich Village, New York. Other items include a hot air balloon ride, an East Heaven Hot Tub and Spa package, fresh water pearls and many other items.

Last year, the Red Shoe Ball raised $15,000 for the organization.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.friendsofchildreninc.org or in person at the office at 245 Russell St. in Hadley.

To learn more, contact Friends of Children at 413-586-0011 or contact@friendsofchildreninc.org.