When prom dresses can cost $400, not everyone can afford one.
That is why Prom Glitz, a local non-profit organization, is hoping people will donate their gently used formal gowns so students can have a more affordable prom experience.
Jennifer Brake, guidance counsellor at Bradford District High School, is helping organize an event June 1 and June 2, where people can either donate dresses or pick one up for a pay-what-you-can fee.
“Graduation is a big deal in a student's life, and the dresses for girls are getting more and more expensive,” said Brake. “Prom dresses are honestly well over $200! I've seen many in the $400 range.”
Prom Glitz started in 2005 and was geared directly to Grade 12 girls. That is still the group’s mandate, but it was expanded last year to include Grade 8 girls.
Donated dresses must be long, formal gowns, new or nearly new in excellent condition, bought in the last five years, and cleaned and free of damage.
“We were able to help lots of girls get amazing dresses for their grad. So many girls were just thrilled with getting a very fancy dress,” she said.
Prom Glitz organizes different donation events around Ontario. The event this Friday and Saturday will take place at the Kozlov Centre in Barrie.
“The Simcoe County (District) School Board has been a big supporter of Prom Glitz for years. They help us promote to all the schools,” Brake said.
“Our organization is centred out of Barrie because we are meant to be available to all of Simcoe County and Barrie is central. The Kozlov Centre in Barrie has been so generous to us over the years by donating their space to hold our events.”
And donations are what keep Prom Glitz running.
“Somehow, charity is expensive! We have costs such as insurance, storage and moving expenses,” she said, adding she hopes many girls will come to the Kozlov Centre to get a prom dress.
“Grade 8 students in Bradford are welcome to stop by and pick out a dress to make their graduation extra special.
Prom Glitz
WHAT: Donate a prom dress or pick one up
COST: Pay-what-you-can donation
WHEN: June 1, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and June 2, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Kozlov Centre, 400 Bayfield St., Barrie
RULES: Donated dresses must be long, formal gowns, new or nearly new in excellent condition, bought in the last five years, cleaned and free of damage
