FARMINGTON — Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Services, formerly known as SAVES in Franklin County, will host its Third Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser on Sept. 26.

The event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Holman House on 227 Main St. and includes a small array of wines provided by Ron’s Market, as well as light food and musical entertainment.

Guests will have the opportunity to interact with staff and board members, and to tour the office space and learn more about the role of the organization within our community.  

During the event, “Portraits of Courage,” by local artist and licensed clinical professional counselor Penny Hood will be on display inside the Holman House. These original pieces of artwork were created to honor survivors of violence and their advocates.

Admission to the wine tasting is by advance ticket sales or at the door: $20 for a single ticket or $35 for a pair.

Tickets may be purchased directly from the SAPARS office by calling 207-778-9522, or by coming to the office on the second floor of the Holman House from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Interested parties must be 21 or older to attend.

By purchasing a ticket, a person will be entered into a drawing to win gift certificates to some of Franklin County’s finest restaurants, including The Homestead, Calzolaio Pasta Co., The Roost and The Dugout Bar and Grill. Extra tickets may be purchased at the event; ticket holders must be present to win. 

This event is sponsored by Ron’s Market, 144 Franklin Ave., Farmington, 207-778-3344.

For 30 years, the agency has helped people in Franklin County recover from the trauma of sexual violence. Through school- and community-based programs, agency employees work to raise awareness, educate and prevent sexual violence.

In October 2011, SAVES merged with two sexual assault services agencies in Oxford and Androscoggin counties to create Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Services. Visit the website at www.sapars.org for more information. The statewide, toll-free, 24-hour helpline is 800-871-7741.