LAPLACE — Raffle sales start in two weeks for a custom-made playhouse, which will generate financial support to aid support children through the court process on their way to safe and permanent homes.

Child Advocacy Services, in partnership with Cretin-Townsend Homes, are promoting the 10th Annual Cottages for CASA Playhouse Raffle.

The effort raises public awareness and funding to support services to children and families through the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Children’s Advocacy Center Programs.

CASA recruits, trains and supervises community volunteers to represent children as they navigate through the court system in hopes of reaching a safe and permanent home. The Children’s Advocacy Center conducts forensic interviews in a safe, child-friendly environment for children who have disclosed sexual or physical abuse.

Additional advocacy, resources and prevention education services are also offered.

Child Advocacy Services is a private, non-profit organization providing services to children and families in St. John the Baptist, as well as nine other regional parishes.

Ginger Cangelosi, community outreach director for Child Advocacy Services, said all proceeds from the raffle help provide services and a voice, healing and security to children.

“Additionally, it raises awareness to help us recruit more CASA Volunteers,” Cangelosi said. “We currently have a waiting list of over 100 children that need a CASA.  We are so grateful to the folks at Cretin-Townsend Homes and all of our partners who sacrifice their time, skills and resources to support this project and take part in helping keep children safe in our communities.”

The custom playhouse is designed by local architects and built by donations from community business owners.

A second prize, a weeklong cruise by Dream Vacations, will also be awarded.

Raffle tickets go on sale Sept. 1 for $10 each. They can be purchased at childadv.net or at the LaPlace office, 425 W. Airline Highway.

The playhouse drawing will be held Nov. 11.

Cretin-Townsend Homes Sales Director Paul Titus said it is an honor to support Child Advocacy Services.

“We believe in what they are doing and want to help make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community,” Titus said.

Child Advocacy Services welcomes additional community support for services to children. Individuals and businesses interested in becoming a sponsor for Cottages for CASA can contact 800-798-1575 or childadv.net for more information. Sponsorships are recognized throughout the entire campaign.

The organization is also celebrating its partners, sponsors and volunteers at Sundresses & Shrimp Boots, a casual, south Louisiana themed party Sept. 24 at The Cedar Post Barn in Albany.

Tickets are $50 and on sale now. The event features live music, food, libations and auctions.