Thelma Houston to headline Hope & Help’s 2026 Headdress Gala in Orlando

Hope & Help of Central Florida will host its 2026 Headdress Gala on Sept. 19 in Orlando, with Grammy winner Thelma Houston leading a lineup of drag performers, DJs and media hosts. The fundraiser supports HIV/STI prevention, testing, treatment and healthcare services across Central Florida.

Why it matters: - The Headdress Gala is a major fundraising night for Hope & Help’s HIV/STI services across Central Florida. - Proceeds help expand prevention, testing, treatment, healthcare access, new care models and mental health support. - The event also spotlights a long-running regional provider that has worked for more than 30 years to reduce barriers to care.

What happened: - Hope and Help of Central Florida will hold its 2026 Headdress Gala on Sept. 19, 2026. - The gala will take place in Orlando. - Thelma Houston will headline the event. - Houston is a Grammy Award-winning singer best known for “Don’t Leave Me This Way.” - The gala theme is “Metamorphosis: The Power of Expression.”

The details: - The lineup includes Alexis Mateo, T.P. Lord, Mala Mia, Amber Mills, Brigette Galore and Gidget Galore. - Darcel Stevens will appear as both a featured performer and a host. - Rosie Webber is scheduled to perform in the VIP room. - Hosts include Johnny Magic and Sondra Rae of XL 106.7, Chad Pitt of Magic 107.7 and Julie Broughton of News 6 Orlando. - The night will mix drag artistry, specialty acts, fashion shows, DJ sets, dance and live music. - Hope & Help says the event is designed to pair entertainment with philanthropy and self-expression. - Tickets and tables are on sale at headdressgala.com. - Publicist Anna Kate Womack is the contact listed for more information.

Between the lines: - The gala leans on recognizable local media figures and drag talent to broaden its reach beyond a typical charity event. - The theme frames the fundraiser as both a cultural showcase and a call for community support. - The mix of VIP programming and public performances suggests an event built to attract donors, sponsors and visibility.

What's next: - Hope & Help will use ticket sales, table purchases and sponsorships to fund services after the Sept. 19 gala. - The organization will continue supporting HIV/STI prevention, testing, treatment and healthcare services in seven Central Florida counties. - The event is positioned as an annual celebration of individuality and community investment.

The bottom line: - Hope & Help is turning its 2026 gala into a high-profile fundraiser anchored by Thelma Houston and a wide Central Florida entertainment lineup.