The Resident Adviser staff of Simmons Hall sponsored Dresses for Africa, an event where residents were given the opportunity to create stylish sundresses to be sent overseas.
Simmons Hall partnered with Little Dresses for Africa, a non-profit Christian-based ministry from Michigan. Since its beginnings, the organization experienced great growth and sent more than 120,000 dresses to 16 African countries.
Resident Director of Simmons Hall, Merea Price, first learned about this opportunity from her friend, Kim Wilson.
“It’s an amazing little ministry that God has grown into this great thing,” Wilson said. “It’s just such a blessing.”
To assist with the project, Wilson and other representatives from Fellowship in the Pass Church in Beaumont, Calif. were more than willing to offer their time, five sewing machines, extra materials and helpful hearts on Jan. 22.
Using pillow cases, ribbons, buttons and pieces of cloth, residents were able to fashion their own unique dress. Residents were encouraged to bring their own pillowcase but there were plenty of extras for those who could not bring one. Multiple sewing stations were set up across the second floor lobby of Simmons Hall and another station offered a variety of miscellaneous materials.
The event began at 9:30 a.m. with a traditional African breakfast of toast, jam, eggs and Chai tea. After brief introductions and helpful instruction, residents excitedly began to form adorable outfits, while listening to worship music and chatting about the girls who would one day wear their designs.
“I’m really excited for this event because it’s such a simple way to give. All you need is a pillow case and a heart to serve,” Melissa Powell, an RA in Simmons Hall, said.
It only takes a little time and a pillowcase to make a difference in the life of a child. For more information and detailed instructions, visit www.littledressesforafrica.org/blog.
