Montgomery County government has announced that Montgomery County Recreation is collecting new and gently used prom attire and accessories for the annual Prom Couture Closet giveaway, which provides high school students with free formalwear. Donations can be made at designated community recreation centers through February 28, with the giveaway event scheduled for April 5 at Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center.
Per the news release: Montgomery County Recreation is again helping make the dream of attending prom a reality for County high school students. The Department is collecting gently used and new dresses, suits, dry cleaned shirts, shoes, ties and accessories that students will be able to choose from during the Prom Couture Closet giveaway event.
“Celebrating prom is a momentous occasion for many students,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “Unfortunately, the high cost of prom apparel and accessories can prevent students from participating. For the fourth year, Montgomery County Recreation’s ‘Prom Couture Closet’ event is helping to make the dream night possible. I encourage residents and businesses to contribute prom-related items and support this effort to give our youth a memorable prom experience.”
Hundreds of students have attended this event over the past three years.
Collection is currently underway. Dresses, suits and accessories can be donated at Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., through Friday, Feb. 28.
Montgomery County Recreation will also host special collection dates on:
- Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Jane E. Lawton Community Recreation Center, 4301 Willow Lane, Chevy Chase.
- Saturday, March 1, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Germantown Community Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Road, Germantown.
On Saturday, April 5, at Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center, located at 14906 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville, any high school student with their I.D. card will be able to “shop the racks” and choose a free prom dress or suit, shoes and accessories from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Prom Couture Closet giveaway event seeks to eliminate the financial obstacle of attending prom, which for many students, turns out to be one of the most memorable days of high school.”