By Kim Latimer
A swanky, vintage-themed fundraising event with the tongue-in-cheek name “Who Gives a Frock?” is creating buzz this month. Women are asked to donate a gently used dress that will be resold, with all proceeds going towards the Children’s Centre Foundation of Thunder Bay to support children’s mental health programs in our community.
“I absolutely love the idea that every dress has a story. When women donate a dress it is because that dress made them feel special and they genuinely hope that it will have the same effect on another woman,” says Monique Gouthro, a member of the organizing committee.
Last year, the event’s 50 tickets sold out in two weeks based on word-of-mouth promotions. The frocks raised more than $5,000 dollars for the Children’s Centre Foundation. This year, 100 tickets are up for grabs, and the event was 70 percent sold out at the time of printing. As well, more locally owned retail businesses have stepped up to the plate this year, donating over a dozen brand new dresses to be auctioned off.
“The committee is overwhelmed by the support and generosity from the local retailers and the community. Contributing to mental health awareness in children is our goal, and we hope to double our money raised last year,” says Melissa McClement, chair of the organizing committee. “It’s a great time of year for women to get together, network, and pick up some lovely clothes for an important cause.”
Tickets are $40 and are available at eventbrite.ca (search Who Gives a Frock?). To donate a dress, visit Who Gives a Frock? on Facebook.
