State of Connecticut Proud to Sponsor Strength in Numbers Fashion Show to Tackle Food Insecurity

NEW HAVEN, CT [May 28, 2025]— The State of Connecticut is proud to serve as a leading sponsor of the inaugural Strength in Numbers Fashion Show, a one-night-only philanthropic event that blends pizza, fashion, and community purpose to combat food insecurity. Taking place Saturday, June 7 at District NHV in New Haven, this landmark event benefits the Feeding Families Foundation, a nonprofit providing meals to parents and caregivers of hospitalized children across Connecticut.

Curated by acclaimed artist Michael Pollack, founder of the New Haven Pizza Club, and featuring an exclusive runway collection by internationally celebrated fashion designer Justin Haynes (JUS10H), the Strength in Numbers Fashion Show demonstrates the power of collaboration and creativity in addressing urgent social needs.

Highlights of the evening include:

• 200-ft runway show with exclusive designs by Justin Haynes (JUS10H)

• Live entertainment and afterparty

• Cuisine, cocktails, beer, and wine

• VIP networking with business leaders, artists, and elected officials

• Hosted at District NHV, home to over 400 businesses and the New Haven Pizza Club exhibition

The Feeding Families Foundation provides meals to parents and caregivers of children in long-term hospital care—individuals often overlooked within the hospital system. Programs are already underway across the state, including Modern Apizza’s weekly Friday-night pizza deliveries to Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital.

“This event embodies what Connecticut does best—lead with creativity, compassion, and community,” said Anthony Anthony, Chief Marketing Officer for the State of Connecticut. “It brings together some of the state’s most beloved cultural touchstones—pizza, fashion, and fierce advocacy—to support a mission every family can rally behind.”

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, a longtime advocate for food equity and New Haven’s self-proclaimed “Pizza Queen,” will deliver the evening’s keynote remarks. Known for her bold style and deep community roots, DeLauro’s support adds powerful visibility to this critical cause.

“Pizza is a unifier. And when it’s paired with purpose like this, we create more than a meal—we create momentum,” said artist and New Haven Pizza Club founder Michael Pollack. “This is what New Haven culture is all about.”

“Fashion has always been a way for me to tell stories—and this one is personal,” added designer Justin Haynes. “The Feeding Families Foundation represents everything I believe in: supporting families, feeding hope, and doing it with style.”

Tickets are now available. 100% of proceeds benefit the Feeding Families Foundation. For tickets and more information, click HERE.

###