When Pitt Meadows photographer Matt Brennan heard about Help Portrait, a worldwide event where photographers, makeup artists and graphic artists volunteer to do photo shoots for people in need, he knew he had to bring it to Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge.
He has booked an event for Dec. 10, and needs volunteers and donations to make Help Portrait happen locally for the first time.
“This event has the potential to change people’s lives,” Brennan said.
“People in need who haven’t had a portrait taken in years; single parents who can’t afford a family portrait; kids or parents who are battling an illness; these are the kinds of people who Help Portrait benefits.”
Help Portrait is a worldwide event that allows families and individuals in need to be professionally photographed in a private photo shoot. The portraits are printed and framed on-site for the subjects to take home with them. Community resources and assistance are also offered where needed.
With a location booked in Pitt Meadows and one in the works in Maple Ridge, Brennan is putting out the call to photographers, makeup artists, graphic designers and general volunteers to come together and make Help Portrait happen. He and his volunteer team estimate they will need $4,000, as well as donations of equipment, photo printers, paper, frames and other supplies.
Brennan says he is thrilled with a handful of local businesses and individuals who have already approached him with offers of volunteer time and donations.
“Help Portrait shows people in need that not only can they come to get their portrait taken and have that keepsake for the holidays, but it also lets them know that their community cares about them. I know that’s the kind of communities we have here in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.”
Donate, volunteer
Individuals and businesses interested in donating or volunteering can call Matt Brennan at 604-817-7517 or email him at matt@matt-brennan.com. For more information, visit www.help-portrait.com.
