High Tea and Fashion Event Set to Fund Affordable Housing

A unique fundraising event combining high tea, fashion, and entertainment will take place on October 5, 2023, in Surrey, British Columbia. This initiative aims to support affordable housing projects in the South Fraser Valley, specifically a new development that will provide 70 units of two- and three-bedroom family housing. The event, titled High Tea & High Fashion, is organized by Options Community Services, a non-profit organization dedicated to community support for over 50 years.

The need for affordable housing has become increasingly urgent in the region. According to Ginny Hasselfield, Director of Development at Options Community Services, the organization recently completed the Habitat @81st project, which features 100 mixed-income apartments in Newton. Hasselfield emphasized that “the need is acute – our clients have told us this is their No. 1 issue, so we’re answering that need.” Understanding the challenges faced by families, the organization has integrated housing into its core mission, alongside various support services such as employment assistance and programs for women escaping violence.

This year’s High Tea & High Fashion event promises an engaging experience for attendees. The afternoon will kick off with a champagne reception from 13:00 to 14:00, followed by high tea service and a fashion show featuring designs from Sandeep Chohan of Art of Thread. Chohan’s creations are renowned for blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary styles.

In addition to fashion, guests will enjoy performances by Randy Charach, a mentalist, comedian, and magician, known for his interactive and entertaining shows. The event will also feature designs from Davi Bains-Gill, whose Armaan brand offers beautiful, custom garments suitable for various sizes and occasions.

Tickets for the event are priced at $150 each, or $1,200 for a table of eight. Interested individuals can purchase tickets or make donations by visiting highfashionandhightea.ca. Sponsorship opportunities remain available, and Hasselfield expressed gratitude to current sponsors, including Schmunk, Gatt, Smith & Associates, and several local media outlets.

Engaging the community in such a fun and meaningful way allows individuals to contribute to essential housing initiatives. As Hasselfield stated, “non-profits don’t have extra funds or in-house expertise for building like this, so we have to contract out, and our pre-development costs are around a half-million dollars.”

The High Tea & High Fashion event not only serves a noble cause but also showcases the creativity and spirit of the local community, inviting all to participate in making a tangible difference. For further information or to get involved, contact Ginny Hasselfield at 604-813-6409.