CITGO Contributes $15,000 to Oasis A Safe Haven and Builds Healing Garden for Survivors
Nov 18, 2025 02:50PM ● By Kelsey Swire
L to R: Kelsey Talbot, CITGO Community Relations Advisor; Ashley Williams, Oasis A Safe Haven Assistant Director; Skylar Houssiere, CITGO Public Affairs Specialist.
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, CITGO Lake Charles Refinery has contributed $15,000 to Oasis A Safe Haven for Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence. The donation will support essential services that empower individuals and families to begin new lives free from abuse.
In addition to the financial contribution, TeamCITGO volunteers spent their Saturday morning transforming an outdoor area at the shelter into a healing garden. Volunteers built fencing and prepared planting beds, creating a peaceful retreat where survivors, especially the youngest residents, can gather, engage in creative activities and momentarily step away from the trauma they’ve experienced.
A TeamCITGO volunteer works on the healing garden at Oasis A Safe Haven as part of CITGO’s support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“Oasis plays a vital role in helping survivors reclaim their lives with dignity and hope,” said Sterling Neblett, vice president and general manager of the CITGO Lake Charles Refinery. “We’re honored to help create a space where victims can feel safe, supported and connected. It’s more than just a place to plant — it offers a place to heal.”
Kathy Manuel, executive director of Oasis, expressed her gratitude: “We deeply value CITGO’s commitment to survivors of domestic and sexual violence in our community. Their generosity and hands-on support help us provide not just shelter, but a true safe haven where families can begin to heal.”
CITGO is committed to building stronger communities through partnerships that foster safety, resilience and long-term well-being. The Oasis A Safe Haven donation is part of a broader $65,000 commitment to organizations supporting survivors across the CITGO operating footprint.