Mrs. Pennsylvania to appear at 7th Garbage Bag Gala
07 Oct '08
2 min read
Some of fall's latest fashions are in the bag the garbage bag! Western Pennsylvania's most stylish women, including Wendy Sledd, Mrs. Pennsylvania Galaxy 2007, will be decked out in everything from Handy to Hefty to raise valuable dollars for families in need.
These generous ladies are creating dresses from garbage bags, taking the money they would normally spend on designer gowns, and donating it to The Salvation Army's Family Caring Center to benefit homeless families.
Now in its 7th year, Garbage Bag Gala has been a significant fundraiser supporting the residents of The Salvation Army's downtown Family Caring Center.
Last year, the event raised more than $15,000. The goal of GBG is to establish an endowment to ensure that FCC families will get the support they need, once they leave the shelter and find their own permanent housing.
The Salvation Army is especially grateful to this league of volunteers and this year's sponsors, Positively Pittsburgh Live Magazine and The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Fashion and Retail Management Program.
"The Family Caring Center needs these ladies now more than ever," said Major Lynette Reel, The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Associate Divisional Commander.
Reel explained, "We are in the process of moving the Family Caring Center to a newly renovated site in East Liberty. Our goal is to have the most attractive, safe and secure location possible. The funds raised from Garbage Bag Gala will help us realize that dream."
Slated for Sunday, November 2nd at the Fox Chapel Racquet Club, the event will be emceed by WTAE-TV Channel 4's Michelle Wright.
A wide variety of exciting auction items will be offered and include: Jet Blue flight certificates; an autographed photo of Hines Ward; a basket of salon products; select items from Kenneth Cole; dance lessons from Steel City Ballroom and so much more.
The Salvation Army's 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of diverse support programs. The downtown Family Caring Center is unique to Western Pennsylvania because it houses moms, dads and children.