Cornerstone's 10th Free Prom Boutique Opens With Some Happy Students

VERNON, CT — Cornerstone's prom boutique officially opened Friday to again offer formalwear to students at no cost.

It's the 10th year of the event at Cornerstone's Prospect Street headquarters, which offers the formalwear to anyone, regardless of social standing and income.

As the staff put it, "Everyone is equal here."

The motto is: "We believe every student deserves to shine at their prom, and we are here to make that happen – free of charge."

This year features 625 gowns as well as racks of tuxedos. Jumpsuits and business suits are available for those not into the formal dress thing, volunteers said. Shoes and accessories are also featured. About 10 volunteers are assisting the patrons this year.

One happy customer Friday was Sierra Rogers, a senior at Rockville High School. She said she came in expecting to pick out a blue dress, but tried on a red one first, then three more and went back to the red gown and settled on it.

She was also happy with the fit, which, with her being on the taller side, isn't always easy.

That made picking out the bling a lot easier, she said.

"I'm really happy," she said about the dress. "I was surprised with how many they had here."

The Prom Boutique was open until 7 p.m. Friday. It will also be open on the following dates:

• Saturday, April 5: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Friday, April 11: 3-7 p.m.
• Monday, April 14: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Tuesday, April 15: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Wednesday, April 16: 1-2 p.m.

Here's what Cornerstone officials said about the 10th version of the prom boutique:

"Located in the heart of Vernon's Rockville section at 1C Prospect Street, the prom boutique is an all-inclusive event where elegance meets opportunity. Students will find more than 600 prom dresses, as well as a stylish selection of tuxedos and suits, all ranging from gently loved to brand new.
In addition to gowns and suits, students can complete their look with a variety of accessories, including makeup, dress shoes, evening bags, jewelry, dress shirts, socks, and ties, etcetera."

Cornerstone is a faith-based non-profit organization in Vernon. It was founded in 1982 by Helen Syriac, a local resident and parishioner at Sacred Heart Church. Since then, Cornerstone has grown to include the Clothing Bank Etc., three shelters, a Community Kitchen, Diaper Bank, and Food Cupboard.