Prom Dress, Tuxedo Giveaway At Westchester County Center

WHITE PLAINS, NY — The 14th annual Operation Prom, the annual prom dress and tuxedo giveaway, has been scheduled for the Westchester County Center in White Plains. Westchester County Executive George Latimer announced the dress and tuxedo giveaway will be held from Friday, April 27 through Sunday, April 29. The giveaway allows students, who otherwise might not be able to afford it, the opportunity to attend proms wearing designer clothing.

“Going to your senior prom is a rite of passage for high school students, and the occasion should be remembered as a special one for kids across the county," Latimer said. "Unfortunately, the cost of prom tickets and formal attire can wind up costing hundreds of dollars. Operation Prom provides thousands of young women and men the chance to have their dream prom in style.”

This is the 14th year that the dress and tuxedo giveaway has been hosted at the County Center, with dozens of students lining up to try on colorful prom dresses, sparkling shoes and head-to-toe accessories. For young men, tuxedos will be provided on Saturday, April 28.

Operation Prom was created in 2005 by Yonkers native Noel D’Allacco. The founder and president of Operation Prom developed the dress drive concept when she discovered many of her friends were storing old bridesmaid dresses, and dresses from other special occasions, after wearing them just one time.

D’Allacco said she is thrilled to continue her partnership with Westchester County.

"We truly appreciate the support of the County Executive and Department of Social Services for helping to support our program,” she said. “We have been able to send thousands of students to prom, a rite of passage that so many students worry is not within their reach due to financial hardships and personal struggles.”

Latimer also wanted to remind students and parents that dresses, tuxedos and accessories are only part of a great prom experience.

“The most important thing is making sure everyone has a safe prom. Be smart, make good decisions and have the time of your life,” he said.

For more information about Operation Prom, how to volunteer and how to donate, visit Operation Prom's website.

Photo caption: From a previous Operation Prom giveaway. Photo credit: Michael Woyton/Patch Staff.