To benefit Bright Star Center for Grieving Children and Families

MELBOURNE, FL - The Health First Foundation will host its 28th Annual Benefit Ball on Saturday, April 17th, from 6:30 to midnight in the Clemente Center at the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne. This year's theme is "Springtime in Paris: A Stroll Down the Champs Elysees."

Guests attending this black-tie affair will enjoy an evening of dinner, dancing, and entertainment aimed at raising funds for a permanent home for the Bright Star Program, which provides grief support for children who've lost a loved one. A program of Hospice of Health First, the Bright Star Center is currently located in leased space in downtown Melbourne. Ball proceeds will help renovate and provide a permanent home for the Center.

Gail Beagley of Merritt Island is serving as this year's Ball Committee chair. She and 24 other Ball Committee's volunteer members are working vigorously to plan this year's Gala and solicit community sponsorships.

Founded in 1992, the Bright Star Center assists both children and their families following the death of a loved one. For these children, the road can be filled with a silent pain that others may not understand or be able to address in the same way as the adult grieving process. Bright Star's services include workshops, and Camp Bright Star, a twice-annual daylong camp to help grieving children through fun activities. Bright Star staff have also assisted with grief support in local public schools. The program receives no federal, state, or local government support and insurance or third-party reimbursement is not available. Families contribute as they are able, but no child is ever turned away from the program.

Tickets to the black-tie event are $225 per person and sponsorship opportunities begin at $1,000. Kimberly Meehan Agee, who is serving as the Ball's Underwriting Chair, is contacting business and corporations for event sponsorships. Sponsors will receive special recognition according to level of contribution, including an invitation to a special 'Thank-You' Sponsor Party.

For Ball tickets or more information, call the Health First Foundation Office at 321-434-7353 or visit www.Health-First.org/Foundation