The eighth annual Princess for a Night project is collecting dry-cleaned formal dresses, shoes, handbags, jewelry, unused make-up (for example, sample cosmetics), and shopping bags now through Friday, May 11.
Donations can be dropped off at the T.C. Williams High School’s Main Office, 3330 King St., Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.
For the past seven years, the community has helped young women across the region to attend prom without major expense. In April, dresses and other prom essentials are collected at various drop-off points throughout the area. Then, in April and May, events are held at T.C. Williams High School and two other local high schools, where the students can select dresses, shoes, handbags and jewelry free of charge. Last year, more than 500 dresses (as well as shoes, jewelry, and handbags) were donated; more than 325 students from 11 high schools attended.
The project especially needs dresses for full-figured young women (sizes 18+). Do not donate velvet or wintry dresses, soiled items, outdated items, casual dresses or items for mature women, as they cannot be used.
Dress selection will take place at T.C. Williams on Friday, April 27, from 3:30 to 6 p.m., and Saturday, April 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enter through the Chinquapin Drive entrance and follow the signs. Students will be served on a first-come, first-served basis.
To assist with the project, e-mail Eleanor Muse, eleanor.muse @acps.k12.va.us.