By Stefanie Thomas
The Houston Junior Forum will host the fifth annual City Market this spring, bringing together shopping, dining and philanthropy to support the organization’s outreach programs across the region.
Scheduled for April 9–10 at Silver Street Studios, the two-day event will feature more than 75 vendors offering boutique fashion, home décor, gourmet foods and artisan goods. Proceeds from the fundraiser support the organization’s college scholarships, community grants and its newest outreach effort, Daily Essentials – Everyday Confidence.
(Photo courtesy of Houston Junior Forum)
Amy E. Price
Organizers say the market is designed to blend a lively shopping experience with the group’s long-standing philanthropic mission.
For 80 years, the Houston Junior Forum has supported nonprofits throughout the area through volunteerism and fundraising. Members have contributed more than one million volunteer service hours to organizations including the Christian Community Service Center, Gracewood, Harrison’s Heroes, Houston Food Bank, Kids’ Meals, Literacy Now, Meals on Wheels, See to Succeed and Undies for Everyone.
Funds raised through City Market will also support HJF’s Daily Essentials – Everyday Confidence program, launched in May 2024. The initiative provides toiletry packages to women and senior adults in need, addressing everyday necessities not covered by SNAP benefits, such as toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant. The organization distributes the packages quarterly in partnership with Interfaith Ministries’ Meals on Wheels Program and The Women’s Home.
(Photo courtesy of Houston Junior Forum)
Amy E. Price
The organization’s College Scholarship Program, established in 1976, has awarded more than 300 multi-year scholarships totaling more than $2 million. Initially serving graduates of Community House Preschool, the program expanded in 2023 to include applicants from the Nehemiah Center and SpringSpirit.
In addition, HJF’s Community Grants Program, created in 2010, has awarded more than $1 million to local nonprofits serving children, youth, women and senior adults across the greater Houston area.
(Photo courtesy of Houston Junior Forum)
Amy E. Price
This year’s City Market will include a full schedule of shopping events and social gatherings throughout both days.
Opening festivities begin Thursday, April 9, with the First Look Festivity from 2–4 p.m., offering early access to vendors along with cocktails and a raffle ticket for a luxury prize drawing. The evening continues with Opening Night Shopping and a Cocktail Buffet Dinner from 5:30–8 p.m., featuring a gourmet buffet, hosted bars, live music and a chocolate dessert station.
Events continue Friday, April 10, with Early Bird Shopping and the Biscuits & Bagels Party from 9:30–11 a.m., followed by the Retail Therapy Luncheon and Decadent Dessert Bar from noon to 4 p.m. Additional ticket options include lunch-only seating and access to the dessert bar and afternoon shopping.
(Photo courtesy of Houston Junior Forum)
Amy E. Price
Tickets for all events are available online at thecitymkt.org/tickets. Organizers say every purchase made during City Market helps expand programs that provide scholarships, grants and essential resources to Houston residents in need.