Last night, as snow twirled through the New York City streets in the season’s first Nor’easter, hundreds people braved the weather and came out to support Housing Works’ Fashion for Action fall fundraiser. Now in its ninth year, Fashion for Action has become one of Housing Works’ most beloved special events as fashion magnates donate pieces from their collections to be resold at a charitable discount to raise funds for people affected by HIV/AIDS.
This year, a portion of opening night ticket sales were dedicated to help Housing Works’ community members displaced and affected by Hurricane Sandy. Michael Carl, Fashion Market Director for Vanity Fair and Fashion for Action’s Committee Chair, called the decision to aid to Sandy victims simply the right thing to do for the city. “With so many people displaced and rendered homeless by the hurricane, including people living with HIV/AIDS, it’s really important to help anyway we can, and Fashion for Action is a perfect way to do so.”
The event was co-chaired by five fashionable advocates: Patricia Clarkson (Emmy-Award winning actress), Cat Greenleaf (actress), Natalie Joos (fashion consultant and casting agent), Dree Hemingway (model/actress), and fashion mogul Thom Browne.
I had the particular pleasure of speaking with Patricia Clarkson, who is an avid Housing Works supporter and who has chaired the fundraiser for a number of years now. When asked about why she supports Fashion for Action, she said because she knows the fundraiser truly makes a difference in people’s lives. “I just believe in Housing Works and its ongoing fight to help people living with AIDS and the homeless, who are some of the city’s most vulnerable people. And when you can lend support to a cause and event that can honestly change people’s lives, it’s truly amazing.”
Concurrently, Cat Greenleaf also spoke about Fashion for Action’s unique ability to directly aid those in need. “There are so many fundraisers and all are equally worthwhile, but when one-dollar can support two vital causes like Sandy victims and people living with AIDS, I’m in.”
While the opening night’s reception is over, Fashion for Action will continue through Sunday, November 11th in its Public Designer Sale, where 250 name brands will be sold at up 80% off. All proceeds will go toward helping Housing Works’ clients by providing them with lifesaving healthcare, mental health services, case management, and other vital needs.
Support us at Fashion for Action and the Public Designer Sales, and help us end the dual crises of HIV/AIDS and homelessness.
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