The Téa Bayonne Choates Foundation was established to continue the work of bringing awareness to domestic violence against teens and young women. The foundation was formed as a result of the tragic loss of Téa Bayonne Choates, who at 19 years old, was murdered August 6, 2019 by her then fiancé. Tea’s story touched many lives, capturing the media to share details related to her disappearance, search efforts, and the subsequent discovery of her remains seven days later, only yards from her home.

 

The Girl, LIVE! movement was established through the foundation because Téa was known for LIVing in the moment and being the life of everything that she did. Téa would bring home friends and young ladies struggling to have a place to rest until they got a good meal and back on their feet. She was a caretaker, extremely funny, loud, and loved life! Even in the midst of a relationship gone wrong, her words were “I can help him mom...I can save him...and then I will leave.” Wile struggling with acceptance amongst her peers, pushing through ADHD and anxiety, she LIVED life to the fullest and was determined to help and serve others until the very end.

 

In spreading the word through the Girl, LIVE! movement, our goal is to reach young ladies and provide education and resources, events, and scholarships to bring awareness to our most vulnerable youth. We want to help break the cycle of domestic violence amongst their families, friends, and communities. Instead of buying a gown for her wedding, the family was tasked with purchasing one for her funeral. The 250 person gala that she never had, will continue to be held for those she wanted to help the most. A parent should never have to bury their child for any reason, so choose to Live Today, Everyday...Always....Girl, LIVE!