Trude See got right into the spirit of things at last week’s Sip and Shop event to benefit Harvest Food and Outreach Center. The event took place at J. McLaughlin’s fabulous store in the Village Shops, the beautifully renovated retail center purchased last year by Jay McLaughlin.
“I just love fashion; it’s been a big part of my life,” said See, trying on a pewter-colored, layered feather skirt last Wednesday. Friends and acquaintances in nearby fitting rooms commenting on her keen fashion sense, unanimously approved of the playful outfit she sported.
Women who love to shop had several reasons to enjoy this particular excursion – it was being held at the newly relocated J. McLaughlin store, included wine and cheese, and there was a giving component to it – 15 percent of the proceeds from purchases were slated for the Harvest Food and Outreach Center, a non-profit that provides a hand up to those living at or under the 200 percent federal poverty level.
Pam Harmon, a Harvest board member, observed that the vibrant and giving spirit of the holiday season was not lost on those in attendance, all willing to open their wallets and hearts.
“This kind of event is a win-win,” Harmon said. “We are all shoppers and can do some holiday shopping while raising money for Harvest.”
Susan Kamer, host of the event, watched as dozens of women mingled while perusing merchandise beautifully displayed throughout the high-end men’s and women’s retail shop. “It’s a friend-maker event,” she said.
Ladies sought each other’s opinions and granted honest guidance as they tried on soft cashmere sweaters, chic skirts, velvet slacks, silk blouses, lovely dresses and classic tops in a wide variety of colors. They also delighted in the shop’s new space. J. McLaughlin moved from Ocean Drive to the newly-renovated Village Shops on Nov. 7.
Joanne Andrea, manager of the Vero Beach store, said the chain hosts similar “Sip and Shop” events on a fairly regular basis. “J. McLaughlin believes in giving back to the community that supports it so generously,” she said. “It believes in community outreach.”
The mission of Harvest Food & Outreach Center, founded in Indian River County in 2003, is to assist those living in poverty to achieve economic self-sufficiency through resource development, resource protection and resource connection.
Harvest’s unique model offers a comprehensive three-tiered approach with a Hunger Relief program that includes an Emergency Food Pantry and Cost Share Grocery; a Crisis Center to stabilize people in crisis through counseling and agency referrals; and Education and Employment Opportunity programs to address the source of the problem and provide long-term solutions for those in need toward self-sufficiency.
According to Allison Strazzulla, Harvest marketing manager, there are currently more than 50,000 people in the community living under the poverty level.