Pop star Craig Lucas celebrated his 29th birthday by treating 30 homeless LGBTQIA+ people to a special lunch at The 2 Eves restaurant in Gardens yesterday.
The winner of The Voice SA Season 2, shared a social media post last week where he asked mense to donate second-hand clothing or sponsor a homeless person for lunch at the party.
The Elsies River star was overwhelmed by the support he got from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and TFG – The Foschini Group, who donated new clothing to the guests.
Craig explained: “To celebrate, I am putting together an event for 30 LGBTQIA+ homeless persons.
“I performed alongside other artists at the The 2 Eves.
“I am setting up a market at the show where the people attending will be given vouchers to ‘shop’ for whatever clothes they want, giving the experience of going into a store and shopping for themselves.
“The 2 Eves have put together a special menu of food, mocktails and dessert.
“The attendees were given vouchers with which to purchase whatever food they want to eat, while enjoying the show.
“I want to give these people an unforgettable experience, filled with dignity.”
Comedian and activist Soli Philander said: “The idea of acknowledgement is crucial for the queer community, that we are here and here to stay and no apologising.
“Craig is an icon in the queer community.”
Each guest received a booklet worth R325, with which they could buy meals, dessert and mocktails, and the special coloured coupons to shop.
One of the recipients said: “The last time I shopped like this was when I worked; this was such an amazing feeling.”