Cornerstone Gearing Up For 9th Annual Prom Boutique

VERNON, CT — The Vernon-based Cornerstone foundation is again offering prom dresses, tuxedos and accessories free of charge to high school students who might not be able to afford them.

It will be the ninth year of the Cornerstone Prom Boutique.

"Cornerstone is thrilled to invite high school students to the ninth-annual Prom Boutique event, a glamorous occasion dedicated to making prom night unforgettable," said Alexis Flint, the programs and operations director at Cornerstone. "At Cornerstone, we believe every student deserves to shine at their prom, and we are here to make that happen — free of charge."

The Prom Boutique is scheduled to be open on:

• Friday, March 22, from 3 to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, March 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Friday, April 5, from 3 to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, April 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Friday, April 19, from 3 to 7 p.m.

Located at the heart of Vernon's Rockville neighborhood at 1C Prospect Street, the Prom Boutique is an all-inclusive event where, Flint said, "elegance meets opportunity." Students will find a "treasure trove" of more than 500 prom dresses, as well as a stylish selection of tuxedos, all ranging from gently used to brand new.

Students can complete their looks with a variety of accessories, including shoes, evening bags, and jewelry.

"Our journey began eight years ago when students visited the Clothing Bank, Etc., in search of prom dresses," Flint said. "Recognizing the community's need, we were inspired to create an event where every student can experience the magic of prom without financial barriers."

Families can visit www.cornerstone-cares.org/events to register and for more information.

Cornerstone is a faith based non-profit organization in Vernon. It was started in 1982 by Helen Syriac, a local resident and parishioner at Sacred Heart Church in Vernon. Since then, Cornerstone has grown to include three shelters, a community kitchen, a clothing Bank, a food cupboard and a Community Center.