One Simcoe County organization is offering brand new prom dresses to any high-school student for free or a donation.
For the 14th year, Prom Glitz will be offering prom dresses — as well as purses and accessories — to anyone who needs one, with no proof of financial need necessary.
“Prom can be really expensive, and it’s a rite of passage. Students can spend close to $1,000 on prom,” said Jennifer Brake, guidance teacher at Bradford District High School and a member of the Prom Glitz board of directors.
“I’ve worked in the school system for years. We know how important prom is. Girls convince themselves they don’t want to go when it’s they can’t afford to go.”
Brake said she wants parents and students from anywhere — even beyond Simcoe County — to know they have Prom Glitz as a resource.
“Our objective right now is getting students booking appointments, so people know before they go dress shopping to check with us first,” she said, noting each student will have a volunteer personal shopper to help them select a dress.
While the hundreds of dresses Prom Glitz gives away are all donated, they are in good shape and many are brand new, donated from boutiques.
“Some of them have $500, $700 price tags. It’s insane,” Brake said. “You can’t tell (they’re donated). The girls come to school and no one can tell they’re wearing a free dress. These are not your mother’s bridesmaid dresses.”
GET A PROM DRESS
WHEN: April 5-7
TIME: 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 pm.
WHERE: Kozlov Centre, 400 Bayfield St., Barrie
COST: Free, but donations are greatly appreciated
BOOK APPOINTMENT: Visit PromGlitz.ca
DONATE: To donate a prom dress or accessories, contact Jennifer Brake at [email protected].
