It wasn't high-end, flashy sports cars, but rather elegant, stylish models traversing a lengthy runway down the centre of a 91原创 car dealership 鈥� surrounded by a few hundred admiring fans.
It was a fashion show held in the Audi 91原创 dealership on the 91原创 Bypass, which attracted 170 donors.
Everyone attending the third annual In Her Shoes fashion show 鈥� a fundraiser for Sources Community Resources Society 鈥� was there to specifically support Sources' Women's Place.
Organizers described the event as "fantastic," noting this year's show exceeded its fundraising goal of $160,000.
"We have comfortably met our goal and are still counting, all thanks to the amazing support from the community who donated to our cause," said Sources' Mansi Singh.
Located in South Surrey, Women鈥檚 Place offers a safe, supportive environment and essential services for women and their children. It's a day program that provides free supports and services in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental way to self-identifying women and their children from all across the Lower Mainland, who are seeking connection, poverty relief, mental health services, and/or a helping hand as they rebuild their lives, Singh explained.
"Last year's event enabled us to support 37 per cent more women; provide 1-on-1 trauma counselling to 250+ women; offer 1,400+ shopping experiences (up 42 per cent); as well as serve 2,300+ meals," she noted.
Without any government funding, the program relies solely on donations and events like this to continue offering essential support services to women facing barriers and violence, added David MacIntyre, president and CEO of Sources Foundation, the fundraising arm of Sources.
"In Her Shoes is more than just a fashion show 鈥� it鈥檚 a celebration of strength and a lifeline for many women," he said. "I would like to give thanks to our incredible sponsors, volunteers, and guests for coming out in support of Women鈥檚 Place."
The runway featured a lineup of models made up of staff, clients, and volunteers. With courage and grace, many shared their personal journeys and illustrated how Women鈥檚 Place has been a life-changing support for them.
The event was a powerful celebration of resilience, hope, and community spirit 鈥� making it a truly unforgettable evening, MacIntyre said.
The evening was emceed by 94.5 Virgin Radio鈥檚 Nira Arora, who brought her own sense of energy and warmth to the runway.
In Her Shoes is critical in ensuring the sustainability of Women鈥檚 Place, Arora explained to the enthusiastic audience.
The live auction was a highlight, led by the ever-charismatic Howard A. Blank, whose style inspired guests to open their hearts for the cause. And DJ Barron S kept the energy pumped throughout the night.
Event co-chairs Sara Forte and Courtney Robichaud also took an opportunity to share their gratitude.
鈥淲e are overwhelmed by the love and generosity shown by this community. In Her Shoes is powered by people who believe in creating safe spaces and empowering women 鈥� and last Friday proved just how strong that belief is.鈥�
They extend their appreciation to sponsors, auction donors, and volunteers whose support made the show possible.
Is there going to be another In Her Shoes event in 2026? That's unclear just yet, said Singh.
"We are still riding the wave of excitement from this year's In Her Shoes and are so grateful for the incredible response we received. We are energized by the momentum and truly looking forward to what's next," she said.
Established in 1978, Sources is a not-for-profit social services agency. Our programs serve individuals across various age groups experiencing poverty, mental health challenges, disability, conflict, isolation and addiction through more than 20 locations in B.C. The food bank in 91原创 that sees close to 1,000 clients a week come through their doors.