Texas Baptist Children's Home Fashion Show Celebrates New Clothing Boutique

I have attended my share of fashion shows and shot countless frames of models coming down the runway in dark bars in Austin to the catwalks of York Fashion Week and also in Paris. These big theatrical productions to smaller presentations, all have their own flare and will achieve their own “wow” factor for all who attend.   But in the end, we enjoy being entertained for about ten to fifteen minutes…all that work and over in a flash.

I recently attended a local show with no press pit, minimal lighting, a small runway set up in the activities center of the Texas Baptist Children’s home featuring models who live on site in the many residential style homes on the grounds.
TBCH provides transitional housing for single mothers and their children. The many services include counseling, goal setting, relationship building and budgeting to name a few. Residents must be employed and commit to saving for their future commit.
The fashion show, entitled A Chance to Shine, was an opportunity for  moms and their children to strut their stuff down the runway showing off an outfit they selected.  New fall fashions were provided by Beall’s and JC Penney, Haute Tots Boutique, Mays Street Boutique.   Additionally, all the models received the full-fashion backstage treatment from Trashy Roots Salon, Jamberry Nails, and Kiss-N-Makeup.  With the Round rock Chaparral Women’s Club and Round Rock Gardens rounding out their sponsors.

The fashion show was only one half of the evening’s highlights.  The event was the official launch of the new on-site Boutique opened in a newly renovated space on the property.
“The Children’s home has been here since 1950, and what used to have was like a clothing closet”, said Amanda Keeter – Director of Development / Texas Baptist Children’s Home.  While the clothing closet worked to a point, the kids didn’t frequent the clothing closet and that is when the Boutique concept was born.  “Our kids have found a new level of confidence to go in there, with clothes provided by donors and wear those things,” said Keeter.

I took my seat in the front row with my husband Rob and as each child took to the stage with cheers and clapping on top of the energetic music.   Cheers erupted by the many supporters and family who filled the gym.
Former Fox 7 morning reporter Crystal Cotti, was the emcee for the evening.   She explained what grade and school the child attended along with their many interests and accomplishments.   While a majority of the children were small school-aged there were several in high school with big plans for college and jobs.
After the show, attendees were treated to cookies and drinks and a grand tour of the new boutique.  The space is spacious, clean and resembles a real store with professional racks for the many donated clothes, coats, shoes and accessories from the community.  If a mom needs a suit or business clothing for an interview she can shop in the boutique.  “Many kids come to the facility with just the clothes on their back”, added Keeter.
Your donations are welcomed!  The home is looking for fashionable items for moms, young men, baby items, accessories.
The Texas Baptist Children’s Home is located at the corner of 79 and Mays, 1101 N Mays St, Round Rock, TX 78664.  The donation drop off is open M-F 8am-5pm.  Currently, the are not taking donations on the weekends.  They are closed for lunch noon-1pm.