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For many graduating students, prom night is a huge highlight at an incredibly important time in their lives. But for others, it's been a painful lesson in how wealth can divide us.
The cost of dressing for the event is too much for some, so a Kelowna teacher started a program called 'Proud for Prom' to make sure everyone has a chance to feel good about the big night.
Rutland Senior Secondary teacher Julie Loveridge-Marks noticed some students were simply priced out of the prom. "There was a number of grade 12 graduates we were hearing in the hallways last year and in class that were just unable to attend their prom," she said. "Because the items were too expensive and their families were just unable to provide that for them."
She wanted to help and found inspiration in a program in Vancouver called 'Cinderella Project'.
She went ahead and created something similar here in Kelowna last year.
People came forward to donate items and 32 young people benefited. They were provided everything from dresses to accessories, hair and makeup. "I know they were extremely grateful," said Loveridge-Marks. "It was heartwarming."
Prom is a big deal for young people, and it's value to students is hard to overstate.
"Prom gives kids closure on a very important time in their lives," she said.
'Proud for Prom' already has a selection of items in storage, but it's depending on people to come through with more by dropping things off on February 28 between 11 am and 6 pm at Rutland Senior, Kelowna Secondary, George Elliott and Mount Boucherie Secondary Schools.
The program collects clothes and accessories for boys too.
"People can clean out their closets, whatever they are no longer using, gowns, suits, shirts, ties, any cuff-links, any clutches or jewelry, they can drop them off at those schools," explained Loveridge-Marks.
Students will get a chance to select from the collection in April. The program also offers students grad photography.
32 students took advantage last year. This year that number is expected to double.
Proud for Prom is made possible by some generous support in the community. Loveridge-Marks extends special thanks to Falcon Storage, Coast Capri Hotel, Fashion Foundations, Sunrise Rotary, School District 23 and Artona and Mamas for Mamas for their help.
More information is available at the Proud for Prom website.
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