More Images
NEW YORK—The Elaine Gold Launch Pad program, created in a partnership of the Accessories Council and the Council of Fashion Designers (CFDA), is making a $250,000 donation to A Common Thread, the new CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund initiative that supports those in fashion impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, the Elaine Gold Launch Pad pledged an additional match of up to $250,000 in donations, which would bring its total contribution to $500,000. "We have all seen first-hand how quickly this virus has affected our friends, family and the industry as a whole. We believe it is our duty to step in and support where and when we can," said Karen Giberson, president and CEO of the Accessories Council. "The Elaine Gold Launch Pad program is proud to honor Elaine gold and contribute to the cause by matching any donation up to $250,000 that A Common Thread receives."

The Elaine Gold Launch Pad was created in memory of accessories maven Elaine Gold to support early-emerging talent but is pivoting its support to benefit A Common Thread, which is open not only to former CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists or CFDA members but all fashion companies impacted by COVID-19 in need of emergency assistance in the form of micro grants.

“We are marshalling all the resources we can for A Common Thread and are pivoting our support programs this year to focus on COVID-19 relief. This is an industry effort. The Friends of Elaine Gold and the Accessories Council are an important part of the industry, are we are thankful they have chosen to join the CFDA and Vogue in this effort,” said Steven Kolb, president and CEO of the CFDA.

Members of the Accessories Council and non-members can donate here for the match.