A Win-Win Prom Dress Project at Yorktown High School

Yorktown, NY: The newly-formed Yorktown High School Prom Dress Drive will help teen prom-goers find that perfect dress without cost and help donors declutter their home closets.

The organizers are collecting donations of new/gently-used prom, bridesmaid or formal dresses that can be given to Yorktown High School girls. And March is their final push to gather merchandise before scheduling try-on sessions with students shortly this spring.

Going to a prom is expensive and for many the cost of a dress gets to be too much.

The project is an initiative of YHS library staffer Mrs. Claudine Raniolo and other staff and students, who hope to help girls find a dress they love in a supportive environment without the pressure of price tags. Many of the dresses have never been worn and all are in nice condition.

“Every girl deserves to feel beautiful on this special occasion - their high school prom. I feel this is a great cause to help out Yorktown High School girls who want to save money, or just can't fit it in their budget. This drive is twofold: It gives people the opportunity to donate their dress to a good cause, and it also allows young women a chance to go to prom who may otherwise not have been able to afford it,” explains Yorktown High School senior Keiyana Grant, who has taken on a leading role in this endeavor.

This project is part of her WISE (Wise Individual Senior Experience) program and it ties-in with her goal to pursue a career in fashion and cosmetology.

“I genuinely like helping people, and helping them find their confidence,” she added.

So far the drive has netted more than 90 elegant gowns, tea-length dresses and short formals along with shoes, sequined sandals, lacy shawls and other accessories. Dress sizes range from 0 to 18 and are short and floor length gowns, says Mrs. Raniolo, who emphasizes that there is still time for donations to be dropped off to the high school. All dresses must be appropriate for high school prom and in good condition.

“The more dresses and accessories we get the better the selection,” she said. Very soon all prom attendees will be invited to sign up for a private appointment to check out the stock, try on some dresses and hopefully find the perfect outfit.

Raniolo asks that everyone search their closets and attics for dresses that aren't damaged or have excessive stains as well as accessories such as shoes, handbags and shawls.

“So many of us have these dresses that were worn once and will not be worn again. Why not share and make this easier for our local teens?” she said.

Currently the need is for inventory. Items may be dropped off into a box in the lobby of Yorktown High School from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Those who need to make special arrangements may send an email to craniolo@yorktown.org.