For the first time ever, Pace Center for Girls is holding an online auction to raise money for its programs.

It closes at 5 p.m. today, Dec. 11.

Pace Center for Girls Development Manger Margo Brewster said they are still hoping to hold the Love That Dress event at a time in the future when it is safer. The Love That Dress Holiday Auction stemmed from an amazing silent auction of items that have been procured from the Love That Dress auction, she said.

“Usually at Love That Dress we have a huge area of 50 to 60 packages and everyone gathers together and bids all night long at the event. This is the first time we have done it virtually,” Brewster said.

The auction went live at 8 a.m. Monday. She said it was exciting when they saw the bidding start to double, watching the numbers rise as individuals saw exciting things on which to bid.

The auction includes a great number of fashion-related items, all from Love That Dress. In addition to gently loved designer dresses, there also are gently loved Coach bags and Kate Spade bags. A Family Fun package is also among the items to bid on with a kayaking experience for four, gift cards to Love Boat Ice Cream, game cards to Dave & Busters, tickets to IMAG and toys and games for the kiddos.

Brewster said in addition, there are a lot of staycations available with one featuring a stay on Captiva Island.

“It gives you a chance to get away without getting away,” she said.

They are very thankful for the packages received, as they have been almost entirely donated by local businesses.

“We are really asking people to promote and support local businesses,” she said. “At a time that is so challenging for businesses . . . to support Pace is so heartwarming. I know there is a lot of division in the world. A lot of people are really ready to unite around a common cause and something good in the community.”

Individuals can view and bid on the items by visiting https://e.givesmart.com/events/jzM/ or text Shop4TheGirls to 76278.

The funds raised from the Love That Dress Holiday Auction will benefit Pace Center for Girls in Lee County.

The center helps middle and high school aged girls at deemed at risk. Brewster said they come to Pace with a variety of challenges in their life, putting them at risk of not succeeding at a regular public school.

The center provides both academics and counseling to help get the girls back on the track to return to the public school system.