HOUSTON – Thanks to Prom Closet it’s all about dresses and diplomas. For 7 years, Friends of the Library President Nancy Flanakin and teen librarian Elise Shepherd have been the driving force behind the effort to give free prom dresses to anyone who needs one.
Seven years ago, the duo started with just 25 dresses. But they persevered knowing that big events cost big bucks.
“Over the years, with the help of the patrons of the library and other sources, we’ve been able to grow now this year with 800 dresses,” remembered Flanakin.
The gorgeous gowns, some of them brand new, and accessories are collected and kept at the Lone Star College – Cy Fair Branch Library. That’s important because when the girls come to try everything on, it gives the staff a chance to speak with them about getting a college education and funding for it.
Flanakin said they may not get access to these girls any other way.
“When they do come on campus, it’s very, very enlightening to them because they see kids their own age and they know they’re going to have an opportunity in life.”
Jana Henney donated 6 dresses that she originally bought for her 2 daughters. She estimated she spent about $2,000. But they’ve been sitting in the closet for years. The possibility another girl could wear the dress, brought her close to tears.
“Remembering the memories of them all dressed up in those dresses and knowing that somebody else got to put it on and go to prom and enjoy it, oh, it’s a fabulous feeling,” Henney said.
Prom Closet now serves girls in 5 school districts.
The dresses are not just for prom. It can be for any special occasion. Girls can also get shoes, purses, and makeup: all for free and to keep.
If you’re thinking about doing some spring cleaning and donating your dresses, keep in mind that Prom Closet would like them to be in style and in great condition. Dresses in size 18 and up are desperately needed as are small evening bags.
Prom Closet has four more dates for girls to come by and try on the dresses. For more information, check out this link:
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