You might have seen some graphics and posts about a Portland Christmas fashion show on the internet. Honestly, I've been waiting for this for a long time. The event is scheduled for Sunday December 8th, , 2024. Growing up in Nigeria in the city of Lagos, my mom always prepared a big pot of fried rice and fried turkey, which she would put on a plate and give to neighbors and the disadvantaged. It was inspiring to watch her do this! Additionally, she would pack in bags foodstuff to give away. When I was growing up, I saw a lot of people who didn't have food and couldn't afford to eat a balanced meal, but it was usually worse during the holidays. Sitting in your house or under the bridge, you wait for someone to show mercy and lend you a hand. As you close your eyes, you can smell the aroma of food coming from homes, and imagine yourself sitting at a table ready to eat in those homes. You see kids well dressed with nice hairdos and you are unable to do even the bare minimum for your child. Looking in the mirror you only see a bad mother because you cannot give the same to your child. I saw some of these circumstances growing up, so I was grateful my mom had the heart for the community and would extend herself to bring a sparkle of hope to others. Her passing in May of 2011 caused people to feel an emptiness around Christmas as well. It is my goal as an adult to not only continue her legacy but also add to it. This same scene breaks my heart here in Portland as well. The pain cannot be eased by wishing, so I do the little I can to ease it. When it rains, I used to enjoy it, but now that I live in a country where the cold can be severe, I can't help but think about those who might not be able to find a shelter in time. This is the heart of our charity fashion show.

In order to create a platform that would enable us to positively impact our community, I am inviting Portland local designers, musicians, performers, and others to join me. We don't want to be just another fashion show, as there are quite a few of them around town. Specifically, I want to help those who are forgotten, disadvantaged, or unable to afford basic necessities. As a member of my community, I want to spread a sparkle of hope and warmth to the homeless. We are using some of our proceeds to purchase food, socks, beanies, scarves, sweaters and other care packages that will be placed in hampers and given to disadvantaged people in our community. Everyone is welcome to donate to this cause, whether businesses, individuals, corporations, etc. We accept beanies, scarves, sweaters, feminine products, and other care packages. Alternatively, you can volunteer for their distribution, or you can make a financial donation if you cannot donate this item. Let's spread the sparkle of warmth and hope together this Christmas season. "bring your sparkle!"

To drop care packages

Address: 6975 SW Sandburg rd., suite #370 Tigard, 97223

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