High Fashion & High Tea Raises $400,000 for Surrey Housing

URGENT UPDATE: The High Fashion & High Tea benefit event held at the Empress Palace Ballroom on October 5, 2023, raised an impressive $400,000 to support affordable housing initiatives in Surrey, British Columbia. This significant sum was announced by Ginny Hasselfield, Options Community Services’ director of development, who expressed excitement over the community’s response.

This glamorous event attracted attendees who donned fascinators and elegant outfits, creating a vibrant atmosphere for a vital cause: funding a second affordable housing project in partnership with Habitat Housing Society. The first project, Habitat@81st, opened in January 2024 and provides 100 rental homes for vulnerable community members, including women fleeing violence and at-risk youth.

The afternoon featured a lavish champagne reception, high tea service, and a captivating “fusion” fashion show that thrilled guests. Mentalist and magician Randy Charach left the audience in awe, while emcees Howard Blank and Nira Arora expertly guided the fundraising appeal and live auction.

Tickets for the event were priced at $150 each, or $1,200 for a table of eight. Hasselfield indicated that due to the overwhelming success, the event might return next year, with plans for a New Orleans theme.

The live auction showcased an array of enticing items, including gift boxes from Verka Foods, a painting by John Ferrie, fashion pieces from Art of Thread and Armaan DBG, two business-class tickets anywhere Air Canada flies, and a one-night stay at the Empress Hotel in Victoria, complete with two High Tea tickets.

Options Community Services, based on 140 Street in Surrey, provides essential programs across Surrey, Langley, White Rock, and Delta. The organization recently announced Neil Arao as its new chief executive officer, succeeding the long-serving Christine Mohr.

The success of the High Fashion & High Tea event not only highlights the community’s commitment to supporting those in need but also sets an inspiring precedent for future charitable initiatives. Keep an eye out for the next event, as supporters rally to create further positive impact in Surrey’s housing landscape.