Prom dress donations sought

NEWTON — Although it is still winter, prom season is just around the corner and many teenage girls are already making plans for their special evening. However, not every family will be able to afford fancy dresses, shoes and accessories for their teens. Those who are unable to purchase suitable attire for the occasion can count on Project Self-Sufficiency’s annual “Sister-to-Sister” Prom Shop which will offer free new and gently-used formal wear to teens. In the shop, which is housed on Project Self-Sufficiency’s Newton campus, gowns and accessories are displayed in a boutique-like setting, and girls are invited to select shoes, wraps and jewelry to complement their dress. The agency is currently seeking donations of new and gently-used formal wear, including prom dresses, bridesmaids’ dresses, gowns for mothers-of-the-bride, evening bags, jewelry, wraps and shawls, as well as shoes in good condition. Dresses must be dry cleaned and on a hanger.
“The prom is a once in a lifetime event for many girls, and we are hopeful that local residents who may have extra prom dresses in their closets will take advantage of this opportunity to donate them to the ‘Sister-to-Sister’ Prom Shop,” commented Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency. “The Prom Shop has been a huge success year after year because of the community’s support. We are confident that the public will step up once again to help these girls enjoy a memorable evening.”
Donations will be accepted Monday – Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., and Friday, 9:00 – 4:00 p.m. Those who are unable to make a donation during these hours are encouraged to call the office to make special arrangements. Donations are requested by March 24th, so that the items can be properly arranged for display. However, formal wear will gladly be accepted through the duration of the Prom Shop, if necessary.
Project Self-Sufficiency is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton. For information about the Sister-to-Sister Prom Shop, or to find out more about any of the programs at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500, or visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.