More than 300 tickets were sold to SABRA Sanctuary’s “Unmasking Domestic Violence” silent and live auction Thursday night where people battled it out to take home one of 32 different packages.

But more than winning a bid, the community showed up to support the Sanctuary and its efforts to help domestic violence victims.

“This event means so much to us because we are actually able to use the fundraising money to support our shelter,” said SABRA interim director Remonia Minor. “This allows us to be able to aid victims of domestic violence.”

The sanctuary services six counties, including Dallas, Perry, Wilcox, Marengo, Sumter and Greene.

“Being a survivor of domestic violence, it means so much because I actually know what it’s like to be in a position where there’s no hope, nowhere to go and you don’t know what to do,” Minor said. “I can’t even describe the feeling to see all the people come out and support us and we thank each and every person that donated their time and their items.”

Helene Felton has attended the auction for more than 10 years, coming back each time to support the cause and give back to the community where she has spent most of her life.

“A lot of people need assistance that have been abused. It’s not just women, it’s families, children, babies and men, … I can help somebody, even if it’s one family, by coming here,” Felton said.

At the event, artwork, house hold items, a Roto Hog tiller from Bush Hog, a fishing trip, tool sets and even puppies were auctioned off.

Felton said many things will go for more than they are worth, but that’s what it’s all about, giving back and donating money to support the cause.

“We’re here to support,” Felton said. “This is my community … and this helps somebody.”

Before the live auction, Mae Mae Jackson, chairman of SABRA’s board, presented the Roy L. Johnson Exemplary Service Award to chairman of the house and office committee member Doris Duckett.

“This is a very special award. It means that someone has given more time and more effort to make SABRA Sanctuary a really wonderful place. This year, we’re giving it to Doris Duckett,” Jackson said holding back tears.

“I love her to death and she is a wonderful, wonderful human being. We are very blessed to have her on our board.”

Duckett said she felt like there were a lot of other deserving people that also devote so much of their time to SABRA, but was honored to receive the award.

“I do it because I see a need in the community, and I really want to help those who can’t help themselves or are having a hard time trying to make a change in their life,” Duckett said.

“Selma has a real need for a sanctuary for these women that need help and need to get back on their feet, so we try to change their lives and put them in a situation where they can change their life and move forward.”

Mike Granthum, captain of investigations at the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department, said domestic violence is a huge issue in the county, and he is thankful for SABRA and the work they do to support the victims.

“In Dallas County, we have tons and tons of domestic violence cases,” Granthum said. “We see it day in and day out and a lot of time these women and men don’t have places to go and no one to turn to, and SABRA Sanctuary is a safe haven for them.”