BRAWS Announces Mardi Bras 2026 Fundraiser Supporting Women and Girls in Crisis
Vienna, VA — BRAWS (Bringing Resources to Aid Women’s Shelters), a Vienna-based nonprofit, is proud to announce Mardi Bras 2026, its signature fundraising event benefiting women and girls experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, poverty, and other crises. The event will take place on February 27, 2026, at Westwood Country Club in Vienna, bringing together more than 400 community members for an unforgettable evening of celebration and impact.
BRAWS is a volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) organization and the only nonprofit in the region dedicated exclusively to providing new bras, underwear, and menstrual supplies—items essential to dignity and health, yet rarely donated and never covered by food assistance programs. In 2025 alone, BRAWS supported more than 39,000 women and children across the region.
“The need for these basic necessities continues to grow at an alarming rate,” said Jen McKee Min, Board Secretary of BRAWS and Co-Chair of the Mardi Bras Steering Committee. “Demand has increased so rapidly that we’ve had to limit distributions due to funding constraints. Simply put, the need has never been greater.”
Mardi Bras 2026 will feature New Orleans–style food and drinks, live music and dancing, a silent auction and raffle, and a festive atmosphere celebrating community generosity—all while raising critical funds to support BRAWS’ mission.
The event offers opportunities for individuals and businesses to get involved through sponsorships, ticket purchases, and donations of auction or raffle items. Proceeds directly ensure that women and girls in crisis receive essential supplies that restore dignity, comfort, and care during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Sponsorship opportunities and tickets for Mardi Bras 2026 are now available at https://braws.networkforgood.com/events/94313-mardi-bras-2026
"Pads, tampons, underwear, and bras are basic needs essential for women to participate in school, work, and life with dignity," said BRAWS Executive Director Lauren Sterling. "When shelters, schools, and pantries contact BRAWS for supplies, we never want to have to say no. Funds raised at Mardi Bras are vital to meeting the rising demand for assistance in the year ahead."
About BRAWS
Founded in Vienna, Virginia, BRAWS (Bringing Resources to Aid Women’s Shelters) partners with local shelters, schools, and social service organizations to provide new bras, underwear, and menstrual supplies to women and girls in need. BRAWS is entirely volunteer-run and relies on community support to meet growing demand.
Media Contact:
Jen McKee Min
Board Secretary and Mardi Bras Co-Chair, BRAWS jen@supportbraws.org