The Sefton Community Pantry & Dress to Impress Gala Dinner & Fashion Show, held on Saturday 29th November at Anfield Stadium, has been hailed as an overwhelming success, raising an astonishing £100,000 through donations and generous pledges.
These funds will support vulnerable families across the Liverpool City Region, as well as contribute to vital local causes such as Liverpool Women’s Hospital, Amy and Friends, Age UK, and several additional small charities within the local community.
The black-tie evening was hosted by legendary British fashion designer Jeff Banks and delivered everything it promised: glamour, celebration, community spirit and a powerful message of hope. The final fundraising total surpassed the original £50,000 target thanks to the remarkable generosity of guests, who bought raffle tickets, bid enthusiastically in the live auction, donated clothing and toys, and even pledged their time to support Sefton Community Pantry CIC.
A grassroots, community-driven organisation Sefton Community Pantry has supported vulnerable families across the Liverpool City Region since 2008. Founded by Lynne Higgins, the Pantry provides food, essentials and wraparound support, while its dedicated project Dress to Impress offers free, prom gowns, communion dresses, formal suits and funeral attire to disadvantaged children and families. The initiative ensures no young person has to miss life’s most important milestones simply because of poverty.
The evening included an amazing three-course dinner followed by a high-energy fashion show that lit up the iconic Anfield Stadium. Hosted by Jeff Banks, the show celebrated empowerment and inclusivity, featuring stunning gowns, formal wear and a range of looks carefully curated and styled by Lynne and the Dress to Impress team.
Jeff’s professionalism and enthusiasm on the night were matched only by the confidence and poise of the volunteer models, including those from Petty Pool Vocational College, who shone as they showcased the charity’s work and the transformative power of clothing. The brand-new suits donated ahead of the event, thanks to Jeff’s industry colleagues at Threadology (Twisted Tailor) and Baird Group (Suit Direct), looked exceptional on the male models, highlighting the impact these garments will have when passed on to young people supported by the charity. Liverpool Community College students also joined the runway, presenting their own innovative designs made from recycled fabrics and pre-worn garments, further showcasing the event’s commitment to creativity, community and sustainable fashion.
“The generosity shown tonight has been overwhelming,” said Lynne Higgins. “Every donation, every bid, every offer of help will allow us to reach more families and make sure no young person misses out on life’s most important moments. We are incredibly grateful and we are proud that this year’s fundraising will also extend support to Liverpool Women’s Hospital and the extraordinary work they do for families across our region.”
The event was the vision of Sue Wright of The Harrogate Group, who brought together and led an outstanding events team to make this Gala an unforgettable and fully inclusive celebration.
“Seeing this community come together, with Jeff Banks at the helm, was truly inspirational. Tonight wasn’t just about fashion; it was about dignity, confidence and giving families the chance to thrive. I would personally like to thank everyone who has supported us, it is truly inspirational to see how a community can come together and achieve amazing things.”
Sue Wright.
This year’s Gala was proudly supported by Home Bargains and The Harrogate Group, whose commitment and generosity were instrumental in driving sponsorship and attendance.
The funds raised will directly support the expansion and stocking of Sefton Community Pantry, increase awareness of the project and its vital work, and provide much-needed support to a number of local charities across Liverpool including Liverpool Women’s Hospital, Amy and Friends, Age UK, and several smaller community organisations that play an essential role in supporting families and vulnerable residents.
The success of the Gala has set a new benchmark for what community-led initiatives can achieve. The spirit of generosity displayed at Anfield will create a lasting legacy for families and charities across the Liverpool City Region.
