March 8 is celebrated as International Women's Day to acknowledge the accomplishments of those who have contributed to the advancement and equality of women in our society. The entire month of March is also recognized and celebrated as Women's History Month and we here at Macaroni KID New Iberia wanted to be sure to recognize women in our local community who are making a difference. This month we will do a feature article each week to celebrate Women's History Month. This week we wanted to put the spotlight on The Berry Queens of New Iberia.
 Image Credit: The Berry Queens of New Iberia, Facebook |
This past Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending the annual Hats ‘n Hallelujah Brunch with The Berry Queens of New Iberia. From a delicious brunch with mimosas, a silent auction, a raffle giveaway, and of course the Queen Hat-a-Tude Competition, let me tell you, this brunch did not disappoint! I also enjoyed making this a mother-daughter day and spending the afternoon of my teenage daughters.
The Berry Queens have been raising funds and supporting families in New Iberia since 2008. As one of the biggest fundraisers during the year, the annual Hats ‘n Hallelujah Brunch allows The Berry Queens of New Iberia to enjoy fellowship within their organization and the community as well as collect donations for ongoing projects. But more importantly, this is when the group celebrates accomplishments of the past and announces what their focus is for the upcoming year and 2023 is bringing with it some changes for this group.
 Image Credit by Tracie Ysaguire |
In the past, The Berry Queens have partnered with Habitat for Humanity in Iberia Parish raising over half a million for the New Iberia community. However, with the closure of the Habitat For Humanity office in New Iberia, The Berry Queens were in search of a new project to pour their efforts into to continue to give back to the residents of New Iberia.
I was able to speak with Heidi Martin and Jerre Boreland, Head Boss Queen, about their new endeavor this year. One of the things that these ladies hold near and dear to their hearts is the children of Iberia Parish. They wanted to find a way to work with local families that included early intervention and working with new mothers in our community. Enter... Brain Bags.
The ladies recently spent time in Pensacola learning more about the Brain Bags and how they can implement a program similar to this in our area. The idea behind the Brain Bags is to partner with local organizations and area hospitals to support early intervention in young lives. Intervention before age three is key and the Brain Bags will focus on tools, resources, and ideas for new parents and parents of young children that will help stimulate their young minds.
 Image Credit by Tracie Ysaguire |
This project is still in the beginning stages of development and they plan on releasing more information over the next few months on how you can donate to and support this cause for the young children in New Iberia. According to Heidi Martin, the goal is to have plans for this new endeavor ready to roll out to the community by the time their other annual fundraiser, The Berry Queen Ball, approaches later this year.
 Image Credit by The Berry Queens of New Iberia Facebook |
With some of the Covid-related closures in recent years, The Berry Queens of New Iberia President, Andree Schlicher, proudly announced how excited they are to hold another event this month. Princess, Pearls, and Pumps is back and happening this Saturday in New Iberia.
This event allows teens in our parish who are getting ready for prom season to shop at no charge for dresses, shoes, handbags, and accessories so they are styled and ready to enjoy prom night. There is no registration required however the items are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have any items to donate or would like more information on this event, contact Andree Schlicher at andree@mcgeescott.com.
From supporting the Unplanned Pregnancy Center in New Iberia to feeding our local community with the St. Francis Diner, these women are dedicated to our community offering the best of their time, talents, and treasure. We proudly support and salute the efforts of these women, The Berry Queens of New Iberia.
