St. Andrew Methodist Church in Plano, Texas, officially launched its 15th Annual Prom Closet event, scheduled to run from Feb. 20 to March 2, 2024. Located at the Smith Worship Center, this initiative allows high school girls to select prom attire, including dresses and accessories, at no cost.
High school girls from anywhere can secure a spot online for themselves and one guest aged 16 or older. With appointments required, the aim is to streamline the shopping experience, reducing wait times and ensuring a positive experience for all attendees. Each shopper receives personal assistance from a volunteer, creating a supportive and uplifting atmosphere.
Since its inception in 2009, the Prom Closet initiative has expanded from serving 35 local high school girls to over 1,000 girls each year, including those from not only Texas, but also Arkansas, Oklahoma and even exchange students from Germany, Poland, Switzerland and Thailand.
In an official statement, Devra Helffrich, one of the founders of Prom Closet, said, "Not only is the need great, but the impact the dress makes on the girl and her family is immeasurable."
Every year, around 500 volunteers gather together to make prom dreams a reality. Volunteers are required to make a reservation beforehand.
Crucial to Prom Closet's success is the community's generous donations. The initiative accepts dresses from sizes 0 to 30, jewelry, shoes, handbags and wraps. Donations can be dropped off at St. Andrew Methodist Church, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., Monday to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. to noon. Additionally, an Amazon link facilitates online contributions, enabling supporters to purchase items directly for shipment to the church.
“We are so grateful for the support and donations from the community as well as our wonderful volunteers — all of whom make Prom Closet possible,” said Helffrich.
Interested individuals can register for a 1.5-hour time slot online to participate in the event or volunteer. Shopping days will occur on Feb. 20 to 22, Feb. 24 and Feb. 26 to March 2, 2024. For further inquiries and information, the Prom Closet team can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone at 469.385.1810.
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