The namesake company co-founded by the late fashion designer, Kate Spade today announced plans to donate $1 million to mental health awareness and suicide prevention charities. The company – which Spade sold in 2007 – is making the contribution in honour of the designer, who committed suicide this month aged just 55.
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“Kate Spade was a true fashion icon who brought joy to the lives of women around the world, and inspired women to live life to the fullest,” Anna Bakst, brand president and chief executive officer of Kate Spade New York told WWD. “We are dedicated to carrying on her legacy. The outpouring of love on social media and in our shops from customers of all ages has been overwhelming and moving, It is such a beautiful reflection of how much Kate was loved.”
The company has already donated $250,000 to the Crisis Text Line and has agreed to match any public donations to the charity made from 20 to 29 June 2018. Kate Spade New York will then donate a further $750,000 to further chosen mental health charities.
As well as this, the company will host a Mental Health Awareness Day globally for all employees of Kate Spade New York and will introduce a new wellness programme for all who work for the brand.
“Mental health does not discriminate; it is complicated and difficult to diagnose and can often be life-threatening. We hope that our support will shed even more light on the disease and encourage those who suffer from mental health issues to seek help. Collectively, we must all do more.”
From: Harper’s BAZAAR UK
