The Basic Needs Hub (the Hub) hosted a vibrant fashion showcase on Nov. 18 to celebrate the impact of Tiger Threads, TU’s free clothing resource supporting students facing financial hardship, housing insecurity and recovery challenges as well as those seeking sustainable wardrobe options. The event—part of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week—brought together 35 student models, five stylists and more than 80 attendees for an evening centered on creativity, confidence and community care. The show was planned by Marjani Vance who is a TU public health major and intern at the Hub.

Tiger Threads has experienced remarkable growth since opening in August 2023. What began as a few clothing items on a single rack has become a fully functional thrift-style shop that has distributed more than 2,300 pieces of clothing to TU students. Demand continues to rise, with 196 items given out in September 2025 and 285 in October 2025—highlighting the increasing need for accessible, no-cost clothing on campus.

The student-led fashion show was coordinated by the Basic Needs Hub in collaboration with student groups, including Modelz of Distinction and Thrifty Tigers. It demonstrated how secondhand and affordable clothing can be stylish, trendy and empowering. The event also received support from Uptown Cheapskate Timonium, reinforcing the shared commitment to sustainability and student well-being.

By providing essential resources and uplifting student voices, Tiger Threads helps ensure that TU students can focus on their education without worrying about meeting basic clothing needs, strengthening both individual success and the broader campus community.