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n extraordinary evening of compassion and community generosity resulted in a record breaking $227,053 raised for Path2Freedom during the inaugural House of Blondes by Christina Payton Scarlet & Strength event on October 10, 2026, marking the highest-grossing third-party fundraising event in Path2Freedom’s 11-year history. The event brought together community leaders, philanthropists, and supporters united by a shared commitment to helping child survivors of sex trafficking reclaim their lives and futures; 100% of funds raised were donated to Path2Freedom.
Scarlet & Strength was the vision and creation of Christina Payton and Robin Lazansky of House of Blondes, the event celebrated the power of a community coming together to create meaningful change. Through the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and donors, the evening generated critical funding to support Path2Freedom’s mission of providing hope and healing for child survivors of sex trafficking through safe housing and ongoing care for a lifetime. Through its family-first, trauma-informed Magnolia Model of care, Path2Freedom provides comprehensive services including therapy, individualized education and tutoring, equine-assisted services, life-skills development, mentorship, and ongoing Aftercare support.
“Human trafficking thrives in silence, and I believe the more we talk about it, the more awareness we create, and the more resources we can bring to those who desperately need them,” said Christina Payton, Owner, House of Blondes. “My goal with Scarlet & Strength was not only to raise critical funds for the incredible work Path2Freedom is doing, but to create an experience that would leave people looking at the world differently than when they walked in. I wanted people to leave inspired, educated, and empowered to make a difference. Because awareness creates conversations, conversations inspire action, and action has the power to change lives.”
A particularly moving highlight of the evening was the personal testimony of a survivor of sex trafficking whose courageous story first inspired Stevenson to become an advocate for survivors in 2015. Her willingness to share her journey served as a powerful reminder of the resilience of survivors and the importance of providing safe, supportive environments where healing can begin.
“We are overwhelmed by the extraordinary generosity and compassion demonstrated by the House of Blondes Scarlet & Strength event,” said Ana Stevenson, Founder and President of Path2Freedom. “What began as a vision to create a safe place where young survivors could begin healing has grown into a community of people who believe every child deserves a future filled with hope and possibility. This is more than a financial contribution, it represents a powerful investment in the lives of girls who have experienced unimaginable trauma. We are deeply grateful to Christina, Robin, the House of Blondes team, and everyone who helped make this evening possible.”
Today, Path2Freedom operates two licensed Safe Houses in Lee and Collier Counties, with the capacity to serve 10 girls ages 10–17 at a time. “The success of Scarlet & Strength demonstrates what is possible when a community comes together with purpose,” Stevenson added. “Every dollar raised helps us continue providing the safety, stability, and individualized care these girls need. Most importantly, it reminds each survivor that she is valued, she is worthy, and she is not alone.”
To learn more, donate, or get involved, follow Path2Freedom on social media or visit www.path2freedom.org.
