NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The New Orleans Women’s & Children’s Shelter (NOWCS) announced the return of its biggest fundraiser of the year, Bubbles & Bubbly. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, March 29, in the Arbor Room at Popp Fountain in New Orleans City Park.
The 2026 event is co-chaired by a dynamic broadcast duo, Brheanna Boudreaux (WWL-TV) and Amy Russo (WGNO), who have teamed up to raise awareness and critical funds that provide shelter, programs and long-term, wraparound support for families from across the region.
The evening will feature family-friendly entertainment, including:
- Bubble Lady Linda
- Music by DJ Captain Charles
- Golf activities with First Tee NOLA
- Biodegradable Glitter Bar by Pixie Dust
- Hair decorations with Fairy Hair Party
- Creative fun with NOLA Bombshells
- Appearances by Prescription Joy
- Artistic creations with Young Rembrandts
Guests can also enjoy a punch wall with prizes and a thrilling silent auction featuring a variety of luxury items and unique experiences. Online bidding for the auction opens Feb. 28.
“Bubbles & Bubbly is about joy, belonging and community,” said Dawn Bradley-Fletcher, CEO of NOWCS. “Every family deserves direct support in their darkest times, and the New Orleans Women & Children’s Shelter works to help parents and children move from crisis to stability. Last year was a milestone year for the Shelter, and we are grateful to everyone who shows up, brings their families and helps make recovery possible.”
NOWCS is a leading provider of shelter and services to homeless families in New Orleans, and the only shelter for intact families (including fathers). Since 2007, NOWCS has assisted more than 5,000 parents and children to break the cycle of homelessness with physical shelter, programs and support services. Less than 2% of participants have returned to homelessness.
In 2025, the Shelter moved into a new facility in Mid-City, including en-suite bathrooms for every family, a soft-surface playground and dedicated community spaces for holistic services. In Dec. 2025, NOWCS received a $1.25 million grant from The Bezos Day One Families Fund, the largest award in the Shelter’s history. Most recently, NOWCS received $29,000 through the New Orleans Saints and Keesler Federal Credit Union’s Kicks for Kids program, which donates $1,000 for each Saints regular season field goal.
“This has been a monumental year for the Shelter. We are setting the standard of what is possible for homelessness recovery in New Orleans,” said David Schlakman, board president of NOWCS. “Our team at the Shelter is breaking the cycle of poverty for families today and for generations to come. The impact of our work is tangible to our community, our neighborhoods and our economy.”
Bubbles & Bubbly Event Details:
Date: Sunday, March 29
Time: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: Arbor Room (1 Palm Dr.) at Popp Fountain in New Orleans City Park
Adult general admission begins at $125. Children ages 12 and younger can attend free of charge with a ticketed adult. Admission for children ages 13 through 18 is $25. The event also offers special rates for young professionals. Sponsorships are still available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nowcs.org/bubbles.
