As many local families struggle to keep up with the ever-rising cost of living, FreeHelp CK is helping to ease some financial burden by providing free formal wear to students celebrating milestones this spring.
The selection this year will be more gender-inclusive than previous years. For the sixth annual giveaway, FreeHelp CK is once again handing out dresses, but also suits and other accessories to fit the needs of any high school or grade eight graduate.
"We think it’s important to give every child a chance to feel special and take away all and any barriers that may stop them from participating in their Grad or Proms," said Tim Haskell from FreeHelp CK. "A child shouldn’t have to worry about fitting in because of their financial situation. This is why it’s important we help fill their needs by providing them with a beautiful outfit and helping them fit in by giving them the same opportunity to feel good about themselves."
Students can also pre-register for a special "Dress Up Day," on June 3 which includes a hair and makeup appointment followed by a photo shoot at Retro Suites with professional photographer Michael Carter.
"Last year's dress up day the young ladies were beaming of confidence and big smiles had by all. This truly makes it worth every second of hard work for this event," Haskell added.
The FreeHelp CK pop-up store is set up inside Downtown Chatham Centre, across from Tees and Sweats.
The initiative kicks off this Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Visitors can browse the racks every Saturday at the same time through the month of May.
During the 2022 prom season, FreeHelp CK says 218 prom dresses were donated and 398 young people participated in the event.
With the rising cost of living, the organization anticipates a greater need than ever before.
If you have some gently used formal wear taking up space in your closet, FreeHelp CK is accepting donations of gently-used gowns, suits, dress pants, dress shirts, and accessories such as belts, ties, jewelry, handbags and shoes.
Donations can be dropped off at the same downtown location.
Haskell said any student who receives a dress or suit through this initiative is welcome to keep it, but many outfits are donated back to the organization to keep stock for the next year's prom season.
You can find more details about the prom and graduation outfit giveaway on FreeHelp CK's website and Facebook page.
