The Salvation Army Kroc Center in Camden Hosts 4th Annual Garbage

The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Camden will hold its 4th Annual Garbage Bag Gala Fashion Show on Thursday, May 16 at the newly renovated Marian House in Cherry Hill in support of women’s and family programs at the Kroc Center.

Sponsored by New Jersey American Water, Holman Automotive, Babst Calland, PSEG and SJ Magazine, this awe-inspiring runway show will showcase fashions created from recycled and unconventional materials, even garbage bags. Over 30 designs from professional and hobbyist designers will be featured in the annual event, including six designs from acclaimed red-carpet designer and show director, Nancy Volpe Beringer.

“The Garbage Bag Gala is one-of-a-kind fashion show,” said The Salvation Army’s Major Susan Wood. “We’re very excited to showcase the hard work and talent of our extraordinary designers, all in support of The Salvation Army’s goal of transforming the life of each and every member of the community.”

Attendees of this year’s Garbage Bag Gala are invited to a pre-show reception beginning at 6:30 p.m., featuring delicious food, cocktails and music. The fashion show will then begin promptly at 8 p.m. with Fox 29’s Good Day Philadelphia Co-Anchor Thomas Drayton serving as emcee. Cocktail attire is expected. Fashion forward is encouraged. For those feeling adventurous, dress in theme by creating a garment, gown or accessory made from recycled materials. At the end of the evening, an award for the “Trashiest Dressed of the Night” will be presented.

Proceeds from the Garbage Bag Gala support women's programs at the Kroc Center, many of which benefit single mothers and women who are head-of-household and their families. Funds raised help make possible programs such as after-school care, fitness and club activities, prayer and bible study groups, nutrition classes and special events like “Operation Cinderella.” The Garbage Bag Gala also helps meet the needs of the community by providing funding for food assistance, Christmas meals and holiday toy shopping for low-income families.

“The Kroc Center truly does incredible work to serve a struggling population. We’re thrilled to be able to support programs that empower young girls and women of all ages in the community.”

Tickets for the Garbage Bag Gala are $125 each. Additional sponsorships are still available. If you are interested in sponsoring the Garbage Bag Gala, please contact Benjamin Ovadia at (856) 780-0870 or Benjamin.Ovadia@USE.SalvationArmy.Org. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.camdenkroccenter.org/garbagegala.html.