July 13, 2025 — The Clovis Senior Activity Center was abuzz with barks and cheers on Saturday, July 12, as the St. Francis Homeless Project hosted its fifth-annual Doggie Fashion Show and Yappy Hour. The event successfully combined canine couture with community spirit, raising vital funds and awareness for a program that has supported women in need for 15 years.
Attendees, aged 18 and over, enjoyed an evening of delightful appetizers and a hosted wine and beer bar during the lively Yappy Hour. The main attraction, the Wags & Costume Showcase, featured 20 adorable dogs, including five from the Valley Animal Center, strutting their stuff in an impressive display of fashion. Fresno Subaru served as the commemorative sponsor, contributing significantly to the show’s vibrant presentation. Additional major support came from Bill Smittcamp and Wawona Foods. The event also saw a special appearance by the K-9 unit from the Clovis Police Department and notable representatives from the City of Clovis.
More than just a fashion show, the event served as a powerful platform to highlight the incredible achievements of the St. Francis Homeless Project’s graduates. The program, now celebrating its 15th year, provides recovery-focused support to women impacted by homelessness, domestic violence, human trafficking, and addiction. The room was filled with both recent graduates and those who have thrived in the program for years, fostering a strong sense of community and shared success. The occasion was a testament to the ongoing healing and support emphasized by the project, which recently included a camping trip for 40 past graduates.
The bond between humans and dogs, a known source of comfort and healing, was evident throughout the evening. The positive impact of the St. Francis Homeless Project was further underscored by a recent report indicating a decrease in domestic violence and human trafficking numbers in the Fresno Police Department’s area.
The St. Francis Homeless Project continues to build a growing community of individuals helping one another, with events like the Doggie Fashion Show playing a crucial role in raising the necessary funds to continue their invaluable work. A limited number of tickets were available at the door for this unforgettable evening.