(COLLINGSWOOD, NJ) – Volunteers of America Delaware Valley (VOADV) hosted on March 4, 2025 the first annual Mardi Bras + Briefs event at Double Nickel Brewing Company, bringing the community together for a night of Fat Tuesday fun with a purpose. The event collected over 1,000 pairs of new, in-package underwear – the most requested essential for VOADV clients in need.
“We are so grateful to everyone who donated and came out to support Mardi Bras + Briefs,” said Daniel L. Lombardo, VOADV President and CEO. “Underwear is the number one need for clients who turn to us for help, shelter and assistance, but can be an overlooked necessity. This event is not just about celebration; it’s about coming together to provide dignity and comfort to those who need it most.”
The Mardi Gras celebration featured bead toss games, mask decorating for kids, prizes and authentic Mardi Gras beads. Attendees also enjoyed traditional New Orleans King Cake and a selection of “Taste of Mardi Gras” food.
The grand honor of Queen of Mardi Bras was bestowed upon Helen Hannigan, President and CEO of The Cooperative, who contributed the most packs of underwear, demonstrating outstanding generosity and commitment to serving our clients. Attendees who brought packs of underwear for men, women and children were also awarded the “Trinity” prize.
Thank you to Double Nickel Brewing Company for hosting the event and to everyone who participated and donated. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, hundreds of essential undergarments were collected, helping to make a tangible difference in the lives of many.
For more information about Volunteers of America Delaware Valley and how you can support future initiatives, please visit voadv.org.
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About Volunteers of America Delaware Valley
Volunteers of America Delaware Valley (VOADV), is a 501(c) 3 non-profit social service agency that has been providing essential services to vulnerable individuals and communities since 1896. Headquartered in the City of Camden, New Jersey, VOADV is characterized by its diversity of programming and assistance services and supported by a team of more than 400 qualified, mission-driven professionals that work tirelessly on behalf of their clients.