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Friday, September 11, 2009
Welcome to Gowns To GirlsWe're glad you're here! I know the site is very simplistic but, hopefully, it will provide the information you need
to either contribute your time, money or donate a gown for the program. Please leave a post with any comments - we'd love
to hear them!
7:56 pm cdt
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Free prom dresses and gowns are possible!
The Gowns To Girls Program was founded in
January of 2000 by Kathy Arrant in Montgomery, New York, and provided more than 100 Orange County area girls with prom gowns
free of charge. The program began with two local schools and quickly expanded to include ten high schools. The
program was revamped in January of 2007 when it partnered up with Joe Greenfeld, owner of Art's Drive-In Cleaners in Middletown,
New York, and continued its success the following year. The Gowns To Girls Program is now attempting to reach out nationally
to assist school students around the country obtain the prom dress of their dreams.
Why was the Program founded?
Do you remember your PROM? The one special night - a right of passage - a night to remember. Well,
with the state of the economy around the country, many won't. Unfortunately, between the cost of tickets, formalwear,
hair, nails, and limo, many struggling families are forced to make the tough decision between the prom and putting food on
the table. This can affect a child's self-esteem and rob them of that special memory. Seeing the need in one local New
York community, this program was founded.
How Does the Program Work?
There is no cost to the school or
girls choosing to participate in the program. Gowns to Girls is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization recognized by the IRS
as a tax-exempt organization so all donations of gowns, accessories and monetary contributions are tax deductible. Participating
schools determine their own eligibility criteria for students and are provided with the necessary materials for promotion
of the program. Each community will need a venue that will provide storage space for donated gowns and a dressing room for
fittings. Some venues may also provide a tailor to adjust dresses as needed.
How to get started
If you would like to start a program in your area, please contact us by email or phone and we'll
be glad to help!
Email: kdarrant@yahoo.com
Phone: 325-207-0488
