Barrie pop-up celebrates 20 years of free prom dresses for students

A Barrie organization has helped students get glitzy for prom and graduation for free for 20 years.

A Barrie organization is helping students say “yes” to the perfect dress without the hefty price tag.

Prom Glitz is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization and this year marks its 20th year of helping students afford the most glamorous gowns.

Since 2005, volunteers have collected thousands of dresses, shoes and accessories to ensure everyone has the opportunity to attend their special night in style.

Carole Allen, a longtime Prom Glitz volunteer, has dedicated several years to outfitting students in Grades 8 and 12 with graduation and prom attire.

Last year, Carole said nearly 500 students walked through the Prom Glitz doors, and 75 per cent left with their dream dress. The organization has wrangled in over 82 schools, helping students all across Ontario.

All dresses are free, but organizers say cash donations are always welcome to help keep the program running.

How to Donate

Dresses that are still in good condition and less than five years old can be dropped off at several locations across Simcoe County.

Including:

Barrie

• Barrie North Collegiate (main office) – 110 Grove Street
• Cotty’s Cleaners – 420 Essa Rd. and 555 Yonge Street
• St. Peter’s Catholic Secondary School (main office) – 201 Ashford Drive

Bradford

• Holy Trinity Catholic High School (main office) – 100 Melbourne Drive

Collingwood

• Our Lady of the Bay Catholic High School (main office) – 160 Collins Street

Innisfil

• Nantyr Shores Secondary School (main office) – 1146 Anna Maria Avenue

Midland

• St. Theresa’s Catholic Secondary School (main office) – 374 Galloway Boulevard

Orillia

• Patrick Fogarty Catholic Secondary School (main office) – 15 Commerce Road

Tottenham

• St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School (main office) – 2 Nolan Road

Prom Glitz Boutique Days are held at the former Labels location at the Kozlov Centre in Barrie.

No appointment is necessary. Each student can bring one guest to help them make their special decision.

For more information or to donate, visit Prom Glitz online.