YOUNGSTOWN A mental-health and wellness organization hosted a pasta fundraiser on Sunday to support Youngstown LGBTQIA+ members.

Rae's Safe Haven of Youngstown served pasta, held a Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle and bake sale at the St. John's Episcopal Church on Wick Avenue. 

"We do it to help the community,"Janine DiPaolo, director of fundraising and events at Rae's Safe Haven, said. "In order to keep our doors open, we need support from the community. We're asking, not for much, but so people can see what we do, how we do it and who we are."

In February, DiPaolo says that the organization will host a Masquerade Ball, with proceeds also going toward giving back to the community. 

DiPaolo stated that the dinner, baked goods and auction were a team effort from local business owners, friends, family and those with Rae's Safe Haven.

Rae's Safe Haven's mission "centers on providing vital outreach services that focus on advocacy, community building and education...our commitment lies in fostering resiliences, growth and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community."