The funds will go toward supporting vulnerable families across the Liverpool City Region
Sue Weight and Lynne Higgins are the people behind the event
Sue Weight and Lynne Higgins are the people behind the event
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An Anfield gala fashion show has raised an impressive £100,000 through donations and generous pledges. Taking place on Saturday November 29, at Anfield Stadium, the Sefton Community Pantry & Dress to Impress Gala has been hailed a resounding success.
The funds will aid vulnerable families across the Liverpool City Region, as well as support crucial local causes such as Liverpool Women's Hospital, Amy and Friends, Age UK, and several other small charities within the local community.
Hosted by British fashion designer Jeff Banks, the final fundraising total exceeded the initial £50,000 target. Guests purchased raffle tickets, bid in the live auction, donated clothing and toys, and even pledged their time to support Sefton Community Pantry CIC.
Sefton Community Pantry has been supporting families across the Liverpool City Region since 2008. Founded by Lynne Higgins, the Pantry provides food, essentials and wraparound support, while its dedicated project Dress to Impress offers free prom gowns, communion dresses, formal suits and funeral attire to disadvantaged children and families.
The gala celebrated empowerment and inclusivity, featuring stunning gowns, formal wear and a range of looks curated and styled by Lynne and the Dress to Impress team.
Sue Weight and Lynne Higgins are the people behind the event
Sue Weight and Lynne Higgins are the people behind the event
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Liverpool Community College students also joined the runway, presenting their own innovative designs made from recycled fabrics and pre-worn garments.
Lynne Higgins said: "The generosity shown has been overwhelming. Every donation, every bid, every offer of help will allow us to reach more families and make sure no young person misses out on life's most important moments.
"We are incredibly grateful and we are proud that this year's fundraising will also extend support to Liverpool Women's Hospital and the extraordinary work they do for families across our region."
Organiser Sue Wright from The Harrogate Group said: "Seeing this community come together, with Jeff Banks at the helm, was truly inspirational.
"The event wasn't just about fashion; it was about dignity, confidence and giving families the chance to thrive. I would personally like to thank everyone who has supported us, it is truly inspirational to see how a community can come together and achieve amazing things."
The funds raised will directly aid the expansion and stocking of Sefton Community Pantry, boost awareness of the project and its crucial work, and offer much-needed support to a number of local charities across Liverpool including Liverpool Women's Hospital, Amy and Friends, Age UK, and several smaller community organisations.