High Tea & High Fashion Fundraiser to Boost Affordable Housing

Options Community Services is launching its High Tea & High Fashion event on October 5, 2023, to raise funds for affordable family housing in the South Fraser Valley. This initiative follows the successful completion of the Habitat @81st project, which provided 100 units of mixed-income housing in Newton. According to Ginny Hasselfield, Options’ Director of Development, the organization has made affordable housing a priority, acknowledging the growing challenge many families face in securing safe living conditions.

Founded over 50 years ago, Options Community Services employs more than 600 staff who offer various services, including employment support and resources for women escaping violence. The organization aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing, with their latest project set to deliver 70 units of two- and three-bedroom apartments in north Surrey. Hasselfield emphasizes that this need is urgent: “Our clients have told us this is their No. 1 issue, so we’re answering that need.”

The upcoming High Tea & High Fashion event combines culinary delights with stunning fashion. Guests can look forward to a lively afternoon filled with high-tea-inspired treats, a live auction, and a fashion show that features a fusion of South Asian and Western styles. The event will take place at the Empress Palace Ballroom in Surrey, starting with a champagne reception from 13:00 to 14:00. Attendees are encouraged to wear their finest outfits and fascinators as they enjoy the festivities.

In addition to delectable food, the event will showcase creations by designer Sandeep Chohan, known for his handcrafted garments that merge traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design. Also performing is Randy Charach, a mentalist and comedian whose shows have received accolades from major publications. The afternoon’s entertainment will conclude with designs from Davi Bains-Gill, who specializes in custom gowns and couture attire for all body types.

Tickets for the event are priced at $150 each, with tables of eight available for $1,200. Proceeds from the event will directly support the housing project, which has estimated pre-development costs of around $500,000. As Hasselfield notes, “Non-profits don’t have extra funds or in-house expertise for building like this, so we have to contract out.”

Additional sponsors are being sought for the event, and Hasselfield expresses gratitude to those who have already committed support, including Schmunk, Gatt, Smith & Associates, and the Surrey Board of Trade. For those interested in participating or contributing, tickets can be purchased, or donations can be made at highfashionandhightea.ca. For further inquiries, contact Ginny Hasselfield at 604-813-6409.

This engaging event not only offers entertainment but also creates an opportunity for the community to contribute meaningfully to addressing a critical issue in affordable housing.