Huntsville residents join together at Café Texan as state Rep. Trey Wharton, Walker County Clerk Kari French, and others raise funds for survivors of domestic violence.
Community rallies to support survivors
HUNTSVILLE, Texas — The annual SAAFE House Jail-N-Bail fundraiser filled the Café Texan on Friday, October 17, 2025, with laughter, generosity, and hometown pride as residents raised $26,020 to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault across Walker County.
The lighthearted event featured 14 volunteer “inmates” who collected donations to post their bail, blending community fun with a serious purpose: helping women and children escape unsafe environments.
Frank Robinson’s record-breaking effort
Local businessman Frank Robinson led all participants, raising $17,830—far surpassing his $1,000 goal. Wearing black-and-white stripes and escorted by a deputy, Robinson said he wanted to draw attention to SAAFE House’s mission.
“I touched base with the sheriff’s department to make sure I looked the part,” Robinson said. “Hopefully that helped generate a lot of bail.”
Robinson said the cause was personal. “Helping the women and children who are stuck in difficult home situations—that’s close to my heart,” he said. “Anything we can do to help them move into a safer space is a good thing.”
During the live broadcast, Robinson thanked friends who supported his effort. “I’ve got some of the best friends you could have in Walker County,” he said. “They show up when they need to, and I try to do the same for them.”
State Rep. Trey Wharton joins in
State Rep. Trey Wharton of District 12 also took part, balancing his legislative work with community service at the fundraiser.
“Growing up here, my mom kind of instilled in me to pay it forward,” Wharton said. “So that’s what I try to do—help others when I can.”
Wharton, who owns a local insurance agency, said giving back as a business owner is key to keeping Huntsville strong. “We make a living off each other,” he said. “When we support nonprofits like SAAFE House, we’re putting money right back into our own community.”
He added, “Everyone has challenges. But when we take a moment to realize our blessings, those challenges don’t seem like such big hurdles. Helping others puts everything in perspective.”
Kari French adds fun—and handcuffs—to the cause
Walker County Clerk Kari French brought creativity and good humor to the event—arriving in full handcuffs. She was escorted across the street from the courthouse by her husband, who serves with the Huntsville Police Department.
“It was for a good cause,” French said, laughing. “I figured the more publicity we put out there and the more fun we had with it, the more people would donate.”
French, who has served as county clerk for 14 years, said her family’s public-service background made SAAFE House’s work especially meaningful. “Being married to a police officer, and with my sons serving as a sheriff’s deputy and a firefighter, we see a lot that people don’t,” she said. “Organizations like SAAFE House make a real difference for families in crisis.”
French raised more than $425 from 13 supporters and encouraged residents to give what they could. “It makes a huge difference in people’s lives,” she said. “Even $20 or $100 can mean food, clothing, or diapers for a family in need.”
Team effort pushes total past $26,000
Other participants included Walker County Precinct 3 Commissioner Bill Daugette ($2,280), Sue Badrak ($1,145), Curt Landrum ($640), HISD Board President Ken Holland ($615), Huntsville Fire Chief Greg Mathis ($645), Rhonda Buxkemper Owens ($190), HISD Superintendent Dr. Scott Sheppard ($240), Councilwoman Anissa Antwine ($420), and Clint McLaren ($250). Altogether, 117 donors helped push the fundraiser’s total over $26,000.
SAAFE House’s lasting mission
SAAFE House Executive Director Tracy Stoudt said community support ensures vital services continue for survivors and their children.
“Our services are completely free,” Stoudt said. “We spend time with each person who comes through our doors, help them find resources, and hold their hand while they get out of a difficult situation.”
SAAFE House served nearly 1,800 clients last year, including more than 600 children, across Walker, Polk, San Jacinto, and Trinity counties. The organization offers 24-hour crisis intervention, shelter, counseling, and education.
“It’s the little things that make the difference,” Stoudt said. “You wouldn’t believe how far a $100 donation can go when it means food, toiletries, or safety for a family in need.”
Hope and help for the future
Now in its 41st year, SAAFE House continues to provide refuge and advocacy across East Texas. Stoudt said the Jail-N-Bail event not only raises funds but also awareness.
“I wish I could close the doors tomorrow,” she said. “But the need is still there. Until then, we’ll keep answering that phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
Residents can still donate online at givebutter.com/YRDPbE or through the SAAFE House website at www.saafehouse.org.
“When we help SAAFE House, we make our whole community better,” Robinson said. “You’re doing God’s work when you give.”