First fashion fundraiser for Bella’s Closet raises money for expanded services | PHOTOS

CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Bella’s Closet drew nearly 400 attendees for its first-ever fashion fundraiser on Saturday at the Emerald Event Center. The event’s purpose is to raise funds to support Bella’s new building and continue offering free services to women, men and children.

The event featured a runway show with models who were either clients of Bella’s or volunteers.

Stephanie Jenkins, a board member of Bella’s Closet, explained the importance of the event, saying, “This fashion fundraiser is to raise funds so that we can manage Bella’s and continue to provide free services to the women in our community. It helps us to buy new items so that we’re not just giving away donated items, but we’re giving away good items, things that we ourselves would want.”

Other than clothing, Bella’s Closet offers a range of services. “We give financial literacy classes, and classes on how to get a job, resumes, interviewing; things of that sort,” said Jenkins.

“We’re about not just fashion, but also helping the whole person spiritually as well. When you come into Bella’s, you are going to feel loved and cared for. We are all about the women in our community,” stated Lisa Canfield, board member.

Everything that Bella’s Closet offers is free. The donations received through the tickets and silent auction go to pay for the building, water, electricity so Bella’s can meet the needs of their clients. “It’s all 100% volunteer time. The women that work in Bella’s every day give 40 hours a week of their own time. It’s a full-time job for them, and they’re paid with the love of God,” said Jenkins.

The newly opened location at 108 Kraft St. has allowed Bella’s Closet to expand its reach. “The mission has just grown so much,” said Cynthia Pitts, director of Bella’s Closet. “We’ve grown so much, and now we’re helping not only women but men and children as well.”

Visit Bella’s Closet website to volunteer or make a donation.

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