Tickets, dresses, tuxedos, corsages, hair + makeup, limousines — the cost to attend prom adds up quickly. But thanks to Project Prom, Polk County high school students can get formal wear for free, with one requirement that could make a big difference.
Project Prom is an initiative of InnerAct Alliance’s UthMpact coalition, which educates teens on making healthy decisions when it comes to alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. We stopped by its pop-up store at the Lakeland Square Mall, which was packed with teens trying on clothes and volunteers restocking shelves.
UthMpact members Addison Dhue and Delaney Pieske showed us around the racks of sparkly dresses and sharp suits — plus the perfect accessories to pull the look together — all available for free. They said it stays busy on shopping days, but they have plenty of donated items to choose from.
When they’re ready to check out, teens don’t have to swipe their parents’ credit cards, but instead show a PCPS student ID. So, what’s the catch? They just have to sign a pledge to celebrate the evening safely. The wall behind the register was full of pledges to stay sober on prom night and to encourage friends to make safe decisions as well.
Project Prom is open on select Saturdays during prom season each year. Don’t miss its final two shopping days of the season on March 29 and April 5. The store is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. near Dillard’s.
