Prom is an important moment in the lives of American teenagers, but the high cost of formal wear often puts pressure on some families. The Minisink Kindness Rotary Club in Orange County, New York, held a “Free Prom Dress and Tuxedo Extravaganza” in Middletown, New York on April 19th. This event attracted hundreds of students who were able to choose from over 1500 dresses and suits, all for free, to prepare for their prom.
This event, now in its 17th year, has been long promoted by community volunteers. The venue was filled with a variety of elegant dresses, suits, ties, earrings, necklaces, high heels, and handbags. This year, they also added suits for boys in 11th and 12th grade to try on and select, creating a lively and warm atmosphere. Many students expressed that being able to get formal attire for free gave them more confidence to attend their prom.
Angela Lee, the president of the Minisink Kindness Rotary Club, stated that the purpose of the event is to help alleviate the financial burden on families. “We hope that parents and children won’t worry or feel sad because they can’t afford to buy formal wear. Every student should have the opportunity to wear their favorite clothes and participate in this annual important moment.” She emphasized that the Rotary Club has long been dedicated to serving the community and spreading kindness within it.
Josephine Bloomfield, one of the organizers and members of the Kindness Rotary Club, reflected, “When I was young, I couldn’t afford to attend the prom, so later I thought, why not organize an event to give these girls in need a chance?” She mentioned that starting with only 40 dresses and one student participating, after 17 years of effort, it has developed into an event with over 1500 dresses, attracting over 350 students on the day of the event.
Several elected officials showed their support at the event, including Mayor Joseph M. DeStefano of Middletown, New York State Assemblywoman Paula Kay, and several legislators from Orange County. Mayor DeStefano praised the organizing team for having a profound impact on the community, stating, “They have done remarkable things that have made significant contributions to the city’s development and community cohesion, and I am deeply grateful.”
New York State Assemblywoman Paula Kay commended the organizers for their dedication, saying, “For this event, they prepared for half a year, and such spirit of dedication is admirable.”
Legislator Janet Sutherland of Orange County emphasized the importance of such events amid rising prices. She stated, “With the background of rising prices in oil, food, and various living costs, every young person should have the opportunity to participate in their important moments. Today’s event allows them to enjoy their day without worries. Kindness is cool.”
Legislator DeShanda Carter expressed gratitude to all donors, saying, “Thank you to everyone who has donated or is donating. It is the support of everyone that allows this event to continue.”
This event received support from the “Clean World” video platform advocating the idea that “Kindness is Cool.” Students shared their joy of receiving dresses on the “Clean World” platform.
The organizers announced that the second event will take place on Sunday, April 26 from 12 pm to 4 pm at Temple Sinai in Middletown (75 Highland Ave.), expecting to benefit even more students.