High Tea and Fashion Fundraiser Aims for Affordable Housing

Options Community Services is set to host a vibrant fundraising event, High Tea & High Fashion, on October 5, 2023, at the Empress Palace Ballroom in Surrey. This initiative aims to support the development of affordable family housing in the South Fraser Valley. Following the successful completion of the Habitat @81st project, which provided 100 units of mixed-income apartments in the Newton area, Options is now focusing on a new housing project that will offer 70 units of two- and three-bedroom accommodations.

Ginny Hasselfield, the Director of Development at Options, emphasizes the pressing need for affordable housing, stating, “The need is acute – our clients have told us this is their No. 1 issue, so we’re answering that need.” With over 600 staff providing various services, including employment support and initiatives for newcomers, the non-profit organization has long been committed to enhancing community well-being.

Building affordable housing comes with challenges, particularly financial ones. “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,” Hasselfield explains. This highlights the importance of community support through events like High Tea & High Fashion.

Event Details and Entertainment Line-up

The upcoming event promises a delightful combination of high-tea-inspired treats, a live auction, and a unique fashion show blending South Asian and Western styles. Co-hosted by Nira Arora and auctioneer Howard Blank, attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest attire for an afternoon of entertainment and charity.

A champagne reception will kick off the festivities from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a high tea service. Guests will enjoy a fashion showcase by designer Sandeep Chohan, known for his handcrafted garments that merge traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design. The event will also feature Randy Charach, a world-traveling mentalist, comedian, and magician whose performances have received acclaim from major publications.

Closing the show is Davi Bains-Gill, a designer celebrated for creating stunning, custom couture attire for all sizes. Tickets for this engaging afternoon are priced at $150 each or $1,200 for a table of eight. Interested participants can purchase tickets or make donations at highfashionandhightea.ca.

Community Involvement and Sponsorship Opportunities

Community involvement is crucial for the success of this initiative. Additional sponsors for the event are welcome and appreciated, with thanks extended to those who have already contributed, including Schmunk, Gatt, Smith & Associates, the Surrey Now-Leader, Entertainment magazine, Drishti magazine, and the Surrey Board of Trade.

For more information on how to get involved or contribute to this important cause, contact Ginny Hasselfield at 604-813-6409. Events like High Tea & High Fashion not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community while addressing the vital need for affordable housing in the region.