High Tea and Fashion Unite to Fund Affordable Housing in Surrey

Options Community Services is set to host a unique fundraising event combining high tea, fashion, and entertainment on October 5, 2023, at the Empress Palace Ballroom in Surrey. The event, titled High Tea & High Fashion, aims to raise funds for the construction of 70 units of affordable family housing in the South Fraser Valley. This initiative builds on the success of the recently completed Habitat @81st project, which provided 100 mixed-income apartments in the Newton area.

According to Ginny Hasselfield, Options’ Director of Development, the organization has been serving the local community for over 50 years. With more than 600 staff members, Options offers vital services ranging from employment assistance to programs for women escaping violence. Recognizing the increasing difficulty many families face in securing safe and affordable housing, Options has prioritized housing as a key component of its mission.

The upcoming event promises an afternoon filled with high-tea-inspired delicacies, a live auction, a fusion fashion show, and engaging entertainment. Funds raised during this event will directly support Options and Habitat’s new housing project, addressing a critical need in the community. Hasselfield emphasized, “The need is acute – our clients have told us this is their No. 1 issue, so we are answering that need.”

Event Highlights and Entertainment

The High Tea & High Fashion event will feature a champagne reception from 13:00 to 14:00, followed by high tea service and a showcase of stunning designs from Sandeep Chohan’s Art of Thread, which blends traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary styles. Guests will also enjoy performances by Randy Charach, a renowned mentalist and comedian known for his interactive and humorous acts. The afternoon will conclude with a presentation by Davi Bains-Gill, who creates exquisite custom gowns and couture attire.

Co-hosted by Nira Arora and auctioneer Howard Blank, the event encourages attendees to don their finest outfits and fascinators, making it a festive occasion for community involvement. Tickets are available for $150 each or $1,200 for a table of eight, with opportunities for donations as well. More information can be found at highfashionandhightea.ca.

Community Support and Future Plans

Events like High Tea & High Fashion not only provide a platform for entertainment but also invite the community to contribute to a significant cause. “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 $500,000,” Hasselfield explained, underscoring the financial challenges faced by organizations working towards affordable housing.

The response from local businesses and sponsors has been encouraging, with supporters including Schmunk, Gatt, Smith & Associates, and the Surrey Now-Leader stepping up to contribute to the cause. Hasselfield expressed gratitude towards these partners and highlighted the importance of community involvement in addressing housing needs.

For those interested in participating or supporting the cause further, Hasselfield can be contacted at 604-813-6409. This event not only promises to be a stylish afternoon but also plays a crucial role in helping families find stable and affordable housing in the South Fraser Valley.