WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The 26th Annual Old Bags Luncheon held at the prestigious Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach attracted hundreds of attendees, all united by a common goal: supporting mental health services for those in need in Palm Beach County. The event, which combines fashion with philanthropy, continues to be a beloved tradition and a major fundraiser for the Center for Family Services.
While the name “Old Bags Luncheon” might raise an eyebrow, the event’s meaning is far from what one might initially assume. The term “old bags” refers to the designer handbags generously donated by community members, which are auctioned off to raise funds for mental health programs. The event has become an essential fundraiser in the region, helping to provide much-needed mental health services to individuals and families who might otherwise lack access to the support they desperately need.
The funds raised from this annual event support The Center for Family Services, a nonprofit organization that has been providing mental health services for over six decades. Since its founding, the center has touched the lives of more than 37,000 people and has provided over 500,000 hours of therapy. This year’s event marks another successful chapter in the center’s ongoing efforts to strengthen individuals and families through accessible behavioral health programs.
A Powerful Message from Alana Stewart
The event featured guest speaker Alana Stewart, a former model and actress, who shared her personal journey with the attendees. Stewart, who has faced her own share of struggles despite a rags-to-riches story, spoke candidly about the challenges she faced growing up in an unstable environment. Her message was both powerful and relatable as she reflected on the importance of inner happiness and self-worth.
“Happiness is an inside job, isn’t it? There’s no one, or no thing, or house or car or person that’s going to make us happy. We have to find that ourselves on our own,” Stewart shared, inspiring the audience to look inward for fulfillment.
As a passionate advocate for mental health, Stewart’s words resonated deeply with those in attendance, reinforcing the importance of mental well-being and the impact of supportive services.
A Long-Standing Tradition of Support
CBS12 News anchor Liz Quirantes returned once again as emcee for the luncheon, helping to keep the event running smoothly and ensuring that the mission of the day—raising funds for mental health services—was front and center. Quirantes, who has been involved with the event for several years, noted how the Old Bags Luncheon continues to grow in both size and significance, with more and more attendees eager to contribute to the cause.
In a community where mental health resources can be scarce for those without financial means, the Center for Family Services has been a critical resource for those in need, offering counseling, therapy, and support to individuals and families dealing with a range of mental health challenges. The funds raised during the luncheon go directly toward these services, ensuring that people in Palm Beach County have access to the care they need.
Looking Ahead
As the 26th Old Bags Luncheon concluded, the attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to supporting mental health in their community. Through the generous donations of designer handbags and the shared efforts of individuals like Alana Stewart and Liz Quirantes, the event continues to serve as a shining example of how community spirit, fashion, and philanthropy can come together to make a significant impact.
The luncheon may be over for another year, but the ongoing work of The Center for Family Services continues, providing a vital lifeline to those who may otherwise go without the mental health care they need. The event also serves as a reminder that everyone deserves access to the resources that promote mental and emotional well-being, regardless of their financial situation.
