We can all use a helping hand at times.

Fortunately, there are organizations like the Safety Net for Abused Persons, or S.N.A.P., that come to the rescue in times of need.

S.N.A.P., like many nonprofit groups, can always use more money and more donated items. And what better time then the holiday season to think of those in need?

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This year S.N.A.P. is trying something new. A Light-Hearted Christmas will be held from 7-11 p.m. Nov. 30 in The Pavilion at Cypress Bayou Casino in Charenton.

“We have never embarked on an event this large before,” said Carol Mumm, S.N.A.P.’s director. “The board has worked very hard on this, and we have had a lot of community supporters step up to help us with our event planning and getting sponsorships.”

The fun-filled evening will include live entertainment by The Andy Smith Band and Blue Merlot, dinner, beverages and a silent auction.

“This is part of fundraising efforts,” Mumm said. “We are required, with our state and federal grants, to supplement our monies through fundraising.

Furthermore, with the changes in state and federal funding and cutbacks that have occurred over the years, we have really had to step up our fundraising efforts.”

Several Teche Area residents and local companies have joined as sponsors for the event.

“We owe them a world of gratitide,” said Scarlet LeBlanc, a member of S.N.A.P.’s board of directors, and part of the events coordinating team.

The evening’s events are made possible by the many sponsors at various sponsoring levels. However, the organization is still in need of an event sponsor, which would require an $8,000 donation, and would receive in return 15 tickets and representation on the sponsor board.

If residents are unable to attend A Light-Hearted Christmas but still wish to help in some way, donations of shelter supplies, Christmas gifts for the children and the mothers or any other creative way to help are welcome.

“We have just had a family that donates every year come and take care of some maintenance issues for us,” Mumm said.

“We have also had someone volunteer their time refurbishing and painting the bathrooms.”

However, people in the community are willing to help out, either donating their money or their time. S.N.A.P. can always use the help.

“We wish S.N.A.P. wasn’t needed,” LeBlanc said. “But domestic violence is very much alive in our community and our state. We really need the help and support.”

The organization extends the invitation to A Light-Hearted Christmas to join it for a good cause with a donation of $75 per ticket or $125 per couple.

There are 800 tickets available for the festivities at The Pavilion. They can be purchased at Paul’s Flower Shop, Iberia Bank, First Community Bank, Teche Federal Bank, Midsouth Bank or by calling the S.N.A.P. office at (337) 367-7627.