Frock Swap, a fundraising fashion parade at St Lucia campus, will help Brisbane’s homeless women while showcasing a series of winter fashions from local labels.
Held by students of The University of Queensland’s School of Journalism and Communication on June 11, the event will raise funds for Pindari Women’s Service, a Salvation Army crisis accommodation centre for women in Brisbane.
Frock Swap organising team member and Master of Communications student Thuy Truong said the event would also recycle clothing for a good cause.
“The theme of the event is along the lines of ‘fashion gives back’ and guests will be encouraged to bring their old clothes to donate to Pindari,” Ms Truong said.
Manager of Pindari Women’s Service Christine Tuohy estimated more than 4000 people were homeless in Brisbane every night.
“Many of the women who come to us have been facing a number of serious challenges in their lives, such as domestic violence, physical disability and mental illness,” Ms Tuohy said.
The centre is under great pressure with insufficient accommodation, given the rising number of desperate women in the community.
“The waiting list for Department of Housing accommodation in this area is something like ten years,” Ms Tuohy said.
Frock Swap will collaborate with local designers Maiocchi and Nelson Molloy, Sydney-based fashion retailer Freez Clothing, Marie Claire magazine and SoScentual, a natural health product manufacturer.
Money will also be raised through raffles on the night.
“Audience will receive goodie bags and will have the chance to win clothing vouchers from fashion labels, magazine subscription, and tickets to events at Brisbane's Powerhouse,” Ms Truong said.
Frock Swap is held at Sir James Foots Building, St Lucia campus, on June 11. For tickets, email frock.swap@gmail.com or call 0432 085 479.
MEDIA: Thuy Truong (0432 085 479 or frock.swap@gmail.com) or Tegan Taylor at UQ Communications (07 3365 2659).
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