Martin House’s ‘Bags, Boots and Bingo’ event raises $251k for new facility

LONGVIEW, Texas — It’s been a big year for the Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center — and the organization is now one step closer to a major expansion aimed at serving more children and families across East Texas.

Supporters gathered for the center’s annual Bags, Boots and Bingo fundraiser, an event emceed this year by CBS19’s News Director Marangeli Lopez. The evening helped raise critical funds for Martin House’s new facility, a project that leaders say will significantly expand their ability to help victims of child abuse.

Through their efforts, Martin House was able to raise $251,000.

The nonprofit is working toward a $6.25 million fundraising goal for the expansion. Once complete, the new facility will more than double Martin House’s current space and enhance services offered to children and families in four East Texas counties.

Construction on the new facility is already underway. Martin House broke ground on the project in January, marking a major milestone after years of planning and community support. The expanded space will allow for additional forensic interview rooms, family advocacy areas, and staff offices — features designed to reduce trauma and improve coordination among investigators, counselors and advocates.

Events like Bags, Boots and Bingo play a key role in sustaining the organization’s mission. Beyond fundraising, the event also raises awareness about child abuse prevention and the importance of community involvement in protecting vulnerable children.

Organizers say this year’s event was the largest to date, helping cover operating costs while also making progress toward the remaining total of the center’s capital campaign. The additional funding supports Martin House’s ongoing mission to provide services for victims of child abuse.