RENFREW – When the models sashayed their way down the runway for Project Runway: Renfrew at the Bonnechere Bakery on Tuesday, May 29th, not only were they having a blast sporting top fashion brands, they were also helping raise funds to support The Bonnechere Manor.
It was a night of fashion, fun, and fabulous food, marking the first Project Runway: Renfrew Fashion Fundraiser hosted and sponsored by the Bonnechere Bakery & Bistro. The event was fashioned by The Shoe Lounge and tickets sold out fast!
Jill Soucie, owner of The Shoe Lounge, along with co-owners of the Bonnechere Bakery, Marie Schruder, Maureen Hicks, and Angela Schruder, conceived the idea and approached the Bonnechere Manor’s Fundraising Co-ordinator Claire Ullrich in early April. The talented and generous Bakery owners were quick to donate the entire three-course meal for the evening, free of charge. Shocked and humbled by the generosity of these two establishments, Ms. Ullrich couldn’t help but accept the offer immediately.
“It was a no-brainer on our end at the Manor,” Ms. Ullrich said. “These two very prominent and successful businesses were offering to host a fabulous and unique event for the selfless purpose of raising money to enhance the quality of life of our residents.”
Both businesses feel tied to long term care, and recognize the importance of fundraising for such a worthy cause.
“It was honour and privilege to be able to support our health care in our community,” said Ms. Soucie. “I am blessed to be part of such a caring and strong community that keeps giving. Thank you to all our health care providers that provide such excellent care!”
Guests rolled up on the red carpet shortly before 6 p.m., salad was set by 6:15 p.m., and the fashion show began shortly thereafter. The models were comprised of some of the Bonnechere Manor’s own staff and volunteers, regulars at The Shoe Lounge, and local fashionistas alike. Many of the evening’s guests were also staff members of the Bonnechere Manor, including the Director of Long Term Care Shelley Sheedy.
“I think it is so important that, as staff, we support the fundraisers for our Homes” said Ms. Sheedy.
Guests received a glass of wine with their meal, sponsored by the Goulet family of Renfrew, as well as a chance to win multiple door prizes and silent auction items that were donated by local businesses throughout the Ottawa Valley.
The event raised approximately $3,500 with proceeds going towards the Home’s long term goal of replacing all the residents’ beds with a state of the art model. To date there are 59 more beds to be replaced, costing approximately $131,000.
