A community initiative in Simcoe is helping ensure local students can celebrate graduation and prom without the financial stress.
Project Prom, invites students to browse and take home formal wear completely free of charge. The event will take place April 23 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic High School in Simcoe.
The program collects donated prom dresses, formal gowns, suits, shoes and accessories, then hosts a “shopping day” where students can try items on and choose what they need for upcoming graduation events.
Rachel Azzopardi, one of the organizers, says the goal is simple — to remove financial barriers for families while making sure students still get to experience a milestone celebration.
All items at the event are free, and a volunteer seamstress will be available on-site to make alterations the same day.
The initiative began last year after Azzopardi’s co-organizer Alicia Kitchen modelled it after a similar program in Brantford.
Since then, the organizers have collected more than 100 dresses, along with a growing selection of suits and accessories, donated by community members.
Azzopardi said it is unfortunate that many dresses are only worn once before being stored away, adding that donating them allows another student to create their own special memories in the same dress. She added many people have embraced the idea and are searching their closets to contribute.
Donations of dresses, suits, shoes and accessories are still being accepted and can be dropped off at Holy Trinity between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Students from any local school — including those attending grade eight graduation or grade 12 prom — are welcome to attend.
Organizers hope the project will continue growing and become a yearly tradition that helps local students celebrate their big night with confidence.
Written by Jeremy Hall