The Brooklyn Prom Project just hosted its 10th annual prom wear giveaway and it was a smash success.
All NYC high school graduating seniors in financial need were invited to attend the giveaway, and a line of attendees trailed all the way down the block outside of the Urban Assembly Institute of Math & Science for Young Women, which is located at 283 Adams St. in Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Prom Project partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, First Baptist Church of Crown Heights, State Sen. Roxanne Persaud, Assembly Member Jaime Williams, Power 105.1FM, Lincoln Tech and Kings Plaza, and donated hundreds of prom gowns, tuxedos and men’s suits to deserving students. This year, the organization received over 800 registrants and more than 100 volunteers.
“Wearing something that you love and that reflects the light you have inside you is a feeling every student should get to experience on their prom night,” Reynoso said.
“The Brooklyn Prom Project is going above and beyond to ensure our high schoolers can enjoy this American tradition to the fullest, and I am so proud to be one of many partners united in this work. I hope that Brooklyn and all of New York City has as a wonderful, safe, and unforgettable prom night!”
Operation PROM, a non-profit organization founded by former Yonkers student Noel D’Allacco, has been running the project for 19 years and has helped hundreds of teens who live in shelters, group homes or very low-income households attend their prom at little or no cost.
In addition to the prom wear, Brooklyn Prom Project also provides regular donations of food, clothing and school supplies to students in grades K-12 who are homeless and do not have family to assist. The group also provides leadership scholarships to high school seniors to promote higher learning and academic excellence.
“Prom is a vital part of a high schooler’s experience, and at Brooklyn Prom Project, we believe that no student should have to miss their special night due to the lack of financial reasons,” said Dawn Simon, co-Director, Brooklyn Prom Project.
“Our chapter is excited to continue this effort after 11 years and honored to help local teens feel supported by their surrounding community."
