High Tea and Fashion Event Launches Fundraising for Family Housing

A unique fundraising event combining high tea, fashion, and entertainment is set to take place in Surrey, British Columbia, on October 5, 2023. The event, titled High Tea & High Fashion, aims to support the construction of affordable family housing in the South Fraser Valley. Hosted by Options Community Services, the initiative follows the successful completion of the Habitat @81st project, which provided 100 units of mixed-income apartments in the Newton area.

Options Community Services has been a vital part of the local community for over 50 years. With more than 600 staff, the non-profit organization offers diverse services, including employment support and programs for newcomers and women escaping violence. As housing affordability continues to be a significant issue for many families, Options is focusing on expanding its housing initiatives.

In an effort to address these needs, Options is collaborating with the Habitat Housing Society for its upcoming project, which will include 70 units of two- and three-bedroom affordable housing. According to Ginny Hasselfield, Options’ Director of Development, the organization is responding to urgent community requests for affordable living spaces. “The need is acute – our clients have told us this is their No. 1 issue,” she stated.

The High Tea & High Fashion event promises an afternoon filled with entertainment and luxury. Guests will enjoy high-tea-inspired treats, a live auction, and a fusion fashion show that showcases both South Asian and Western influences. Hasselfield emphasizes that the organization is committed to innovative fundraising methods, stating, “We dare to be different.”

The event will kick off with a champagne reception from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., followed by an exquisite high tea service. Attendees can look forward to fashion displays featuring handcrafted garments from designer Sandeep Chohan‘s Art of Thread, known for merging traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design.

The entertainment also includes performances by Randy Charach, a renowned mentalist, comedian, and magician whose shows have garnered acclaim from major publications like the New York Times and the Chicago Tribune. Concluding the event will be Armaan designer Davi Bains-Gill, celebrated for creating beautiful, bespoke couture attire.

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 at highfashionandhightea.ca. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available, and Hasselfield expressed gratitude to those who have already contributed, including local businesses and media outlets.

By participating in events like High Tea & High Fashion, community members can make a significant impact on the lives of local families in need. For further information on how to get involved, contact Ginny Hasselfield at 604-813-6409.