On April 27, the ACCESS Pregnancy and Referral Center held its annual “Jazz Brunch” and silent auction at the Audubon Tea Room. A program of Catholic Charities, ACCESS offers free support services to underserved babies and pregnant mothers at no charge, including confidential medical tests, baby supplies and educational programs. In addition to its permanent location at St. Cecilia Medical Center, ACCESS also brings services directly to women in need with the program’s 35-foot mobile unit.
As part of the brunch’s opening ceremonies, Archbishop Gregory Aymond led the group in a special blessing of the ACCESS mobile unit. Louise Jardell and Jean Rice served as co-chairs of the brunch, with Sheila Spring and Jean Mitchell serving as co-chairs of the afternoon’s silent auction.
The music group New Orleans Banjos + 2 provided the perfect, swingin’ backdrop to brunch activities, lending a feeling of hope, joy and celebration to the event. During the afternoon, Catholic Charities especially honored Mary, Queen of Peace Parish in Mandeville for its outstanding commitment to the pro-life cause.
In addition to the music and festivities, a silent auction enthralled guests, who bid on exciting items like a signed Pelicans basketball and an autographed Terrance Osborne print.