The Inn for Women – a second hand boutique launched late last year by Cloverdale retailer Yvonne Hogenes and partners – is holding an open house Saturday.
Visitors are invited to peruse the sales racks, and learn more about the initiatives supported by proceeds of sales of the store’s specialty items: high quality clothing, jewelry and shoes that are donated.
The store, staffed by volunteers, is a source of revenue for SA Foundation, a charity that helps women at home and abroad who have been sexually exploited or trafficked, and relies solely on private donations.
The open house runs from 2-5 p.m. at Inn for Women, located at 5740 176 Street.
Along with appetizers, a raffle and door prizes, there will be Global Wonders Jewelry for sale that’s crafted by women in Nepal for the SA Foundation in Vancouver, where the items are designed.
The foundation works to offer hope and long-term recovery for exploited and trafficked women and children by partnering with individuals and communities to provide viable recovery options.
Hogenes said the foundation is currently trying to raise enough money to open a school in Nepal – a step she says is critical to ending the exploitation of women who in many cases have children of their own, making it difficult to break away.
“It’s the same issue as here,” she says.
“What about the kids? If they don’t have someone to care for their children, you can’t break the cycle.”
Artist and musician Delany Rose will perform throughout the open house at Inn for Women.
Suzanne Volberg will create a drawing of the music as Rose performs, and donate the art piece to auction off.
Immediately following the open house, the foundation’s founder will speak about her work and describe her recent trips to Mumbai, Nepal and Greece.
That discussion will take place from 5-7 p.m., just a few doors down at Crossridge Church, 5732 176 Street, formerly home to the Clova Cinema.
For more, visit SAfoundation.com.
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