LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The annual St. Joe's Picnic for the Kids is underway at St. Joseph Children's Home, drawing crowds for a two-night event that raises critical funds for children who have experienced severe abuse and neglect.
Admission and parking are free. Organizers expect around 40,000 people to attend across both nights.
What's at the picnic
The event features casino and carnival games, raffle prizes, food and drinks, a kids' carnival area, a cake booth and live music.Â
Parking is available on-site through the Brownsboro Road entrance. Shuttle service from Southern Baptist Seminary are available Saturday.
There is a curfew for children aged 17 and younger beginning at 8:00 p.m. After that time, youth must be within arm's length of a supervising adult.
About St. Joseph Children's Home
Since 1849, St. Joseph Children's Home has provided a safe haven for more than 75,000 children. Kentucky has the fifth-highest rate of child abuse in the country.
The home's residential treatment program serves children who come to recover from severe abuse and neglect. The organization also offers infant care through preschool, therapy for families, and a foster care and adoption program. "In the last 10 years, more than 200 children have been adopted through St. Joe's," said Grace Akers, a volunteer and former CEO of the organization.
"To think about the lives some of our children have led — it's really hard to even think about," Akers said.
Why the picnic matters
State funding covers less than 77 percent of the home's operating expenses. The annual picnic is a primary way the organization raises the remaining funds it needs.
Last year's picnic raised more than $900,000.
"St. Joe's can't do it with those funds alone and we count on people to show up," Akers said.
Suzy Hillebrand, Chief Advancement Officer, said the goal this year is $1 million.
"It's a million dollars all the way for those kids," Hillebrand said.
This year, attendees can see a brand-new playground — nearly finished — built with proceeds from last year's picnic.
The event is powered by more than 1,000 volunteers.
"I think helping kids in need is something everyone in the community can gather around and you can't argue with that," said volunteer Elizabeth Hatchett.
Event details
Friday's event runs until 11:00 p.m. Saturday's event runs from noon to midnight. Click here for more information.Â
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