Making dreams come true
By HOPE E. TREMBLAY
Staff writer
WESTFIELD – Many students spend their first few years of high school looking forward to attending their prom.
For young women, it is an affair to remember that includes weeks – and often months – of preparation. From purchasing the perfect dress and shoes, to getting their hair and nails done, the prom is often the first dress-up occasion for young men and women. It is a time for young women to feel like a princess.
However, there are many young women who cannot afford the gown and the accessories that go along with it. To help these girls enjoy their prom worry-free, members of Westfield State University’s Kappa Delta Pi are collecting gently used formal and semi-formal dresses to sell for a minimal price to high school students as they prepare for prom season.
“We’re looking for short dresses, long dresses – any dress in good condition that is clean,” said Bethany Ricci, a WSU senior.
Kappa Delta Pi is the honor society for teaching students at WSU, open to juniors and seniors. Ricci said the prom dress collection, known as The Cinderella Project, has become a tradition. Last year, Ricci said the project was offered in Westfield. This year, they are moving it to Holyoke.
“We’re holding the sale in Holyoke because we believe there is a greater need there,” said Ricci.
The sale will be Saturday, March 23 at Dean Technical High School on Main Street in Holyoke. However, it is open to all girls in search of a great dress at a great price.
“Everyone is welcome to come to the sale, not just Holyoke students,” Ricci said.
The group is collecting gowns through March 23 on campus. Ricci said the public can bring dresses to the Ely Building, which has drop boxes.
“We’re hoping to have a variety of styles and sizes for the girls to choose from,” sad Ricci, who is donating her own prom gown.
Kappa Delta Pi is also collecting shoes and purses to match the gowns.
Ricci said she attended three proms and nows what an exciting event it can be, and how heartbreaking it can be if you cannot afford to attend.
“This will give a lot of girls an opportunity they may not otherwise have,” said Ricci.
Any gowns that are not sold will be donated to another charity,
For more information on The Cinderella Project, contact Ricci at [email protected].
Hope E. Tremblay can be reached at [email protected]
