By Ruth Ann Ruiz
The Post Newspaper Features Editor
The ladies of the Galveston County’s Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, while being serious about caring for their communities, have a long-standing reputation for being a fun group of women.
“They’re just a fun group of like-minded women who want to make a difference in our community,” said Major David Swyers, Galveston County Salvation Army commanding officer. “Every time I’ve said, ‘Hey there’s a need,’ they have stepped up and helped.”
Hosting a fashion show as a fundraising event has become one way the auxiliary steps up to help and have fun each year. The fashion show tradition continued Monday at The Hidden Palms in Santa Fe, Texas.
This year’s show shined a spotlight on people whose lives have been changed by the work of Galveston County’s Salvation Army. The evening was titled “2025: A Night of Change.”
Videos of individuals who have been positively affected by the local Salvation Army played while guests were enjoying their dinner.
“This is the best place in Texas City,” shared one young lady who attends programs for school-aged youth at the Moody Family Center for Worship and Service.
Another young lady shared how grateful she was to have a place where she could learn more about God. A third woman explained how grateful she was for the Salvation Army’s financial assistance with her utility bills.
Through the videos, the attendees were able to experience the difference their contributions make in Galveston County.
Next came the anticipated fashion show. Male and female models streamed in one door and out another while the audience cheered. The models sported their fashions while weaving like ribbons between the dinner tables.
Major Swyers brought out the hoots and hollers of the crowd as he meandered into the room modeling a casual, button-down shirt.
A mother-and-daughter duo inspired excited applause in their matching pink dresses and cowgirl boots adorned with sparkles.
The decibel level of the room rose significantly when a model stepped in with a sequined shirt dress bearing the Houston Astros logo.
Fashion and accessories were provided by Honey Bee Boutique, known as a small-town, family-owned shop with country charm located in Santa Fe.
As with most fundraisers, there were auction items, and Major Swyers added to the entertainment of the evening as he modeled one such item. He hoisted a patio chair over his head as he made his way through the room.
Lindsay, the bartender with On the Way Mobile Bartending, donated her evening’s tips to the cause. Again, the guests shared their delight with applause and cheers upon learning of Lindsay’s generosity.
Emceeing and serving as auctioneer for the event was Santa Fe Mayor Brandon Noto.
Jovan Harris, president of the Women’s Auxiliary, ended the evening by sharing how significant the financial contributions have been in supporting Galveston County’s Salvation Army.
“The Womens Auxiliary Style Show grossed right around $40,000 – which is lower than what we had hoped to raise to help meet the needs of the Galveston County Salvation Army,” said Cathie Harrison Vice President and Chaplin of the Womens Auxillary.
“The turnout was great and community support was wonderful – it’s not too late to donate and we would absolutely love to have a matching corporate sponsor – as there are many needs which include repair and replacement of large HVAC systems at the facilities, meeting the housing and food needs of many community members.”
If you would like to participate as a donor you are welcome to reach out to Major Swyers at david.swyers@uss.salvationarmy.org .
