Fashion and bargain prices don’t usually share the same runway, but on Saturday, Sept. 28, a thrift store fashion show was held at The Central Mix, 4030 Central Ave. NE. The show proved that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a fabulous outfit. A lively crowd turned out to play purse bingo, enjoy creative food and cocktails and browse the trove of thrift store clothing that was brought in for the special occasion.
The event was a fundraiser for Southern Anoka Community Assistance (SACA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit thrift store and food shelf located at 627 38th Ave. NE. The goal of the fashion show was to raise awareness about shopping at or donating to the thrift store, which directly supports the food shelf located within.
The show was organized by Kim Verbrugge, a SACA board member, and Paul and Shelley Santrach from The Central Mix. Showcasing outfits from evening wear to casual looks, the volunteer models strutted their stuff and enjoyed their moment in the spotlight. After the show, all garments were offered for sale at the outrageously low prices of $2 to $4.
SACA was founded in 1976 and serves Columbia Heights, Hilltop, Fridley, Spring Lake Park and Northeast Minneapolis. At the food shelf, clients can select the foods they want — much like a grocery store — and SACA partners with Second Harvest Heartland to distribute fresh produce. There is also a delivery program for the homebound and disabled.
SACA is committed to reducing food waste by donating meat products from grocery stores that are opened or questionable, as well as produce that has gone bad, to the Wildlife Science Center in Stacy, Minn., and Feeding Furry Friends.
Dave Rudolph, co-director of SACA, said, “Ninety-three percent of the work that happens at SACA is done by volunteers, and we couldn’t do anything without them.”
SACA plans to move next year to 3905 California St. NE, expanding from a 6,500 sq. ft. building to 23,000 sq. ft. More volunteers and donations will be needed.
The food shelf/thrift store is open Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. To contact SACA, visit https://sacafoodshelf.org.
Master of Ceremonies Mike Dee with model Rae Armstrong. (Patti Hoffmann)
Ed Higgins with attitude on the runway. (Patti Hoffmann)