Prom is a rite of passage that many young Americans to go through, so Project Prom in Allegheny County is working to make every young adult well dressed and well behaved for the night.
The County Department of Human Services (DHS) is putting on its 11th annual Project Prom, where eligible girls can receive free prom dresses from various local boutiques and individuals who donate dresses. The dress giveaway starts March 15, and on March 29, the shop will be open for public sale, where girls can purchase dresses for no more than $25.
“Prom is an experience that has the power to unify across time and cultures. Giving youth who might not otherwise be able to participate in this experience and allow them to do it in style, we feel is a worthwhile cause,” said Ondréa Burton, Manager of Events and Donations for the DHS.
This year Project Prom is planning to give away about 400-500 dresses and sell about 200 in its store after the giveaway is over.
Also the DHS will be holding its third annual Project Prom for Gentlemen on April 10 which will be a workshop for young men to learn proper etiquette and receive a free tux rental.
“Project Prom for Gentlemen [is] men coming out to mentor for one evening… on the principals of respectful conduct that will not only benefit them for the prom, but for their lifetime” said Burton.
Students can find out if they are eligible for a free gown on the DHS’s website. This year Project Prom is in special need of plus size gowns. Donations can be given at either the DHS building at One Smithfield St. in downtown Pittsburgh between 8-6pm or on Fridays at the Project Prom Shop in the Century III Mall from 9-3pm.
