Westborough Prom-Goers Can Shop For A Free Dress

WESTBOROUGH, MA—Last year, nearly 20 girls from town left with something to help them with their prom experience that year, including a dress to wear. It was the launch of Prom-A-Palooza, where locals donate dresses and other prom items to those in need.

"It was just a program that I read about and thought it would be worth trying here," said Jen McGrath, the program's director. "Last year we collected well over 100 dresses."

On Saturday, March 10, from 1-4 p.m. Westborough teens will be able to “shop” for a free prom dress at the “WPL Boutique” at the library from donations made by the community. There will be a second date that will be open to patrons of all ages who may need a dress for a fancy occasion.

Anyone is welcome to donate new or gently used prom/ formal dresses of any size. Matching shoes and accessories will also be accepted. Drop off donations at the Westborough Public Library now through March 3.

"Many generous patrons also donated gift cards for hair or nail appointments that were raffled off or given to girls who could really use the extra help," said McGrath.

Shoppers pay $5 to pick up whatever they need, and the money collected is used to pay for prom tickets that are either raffled off or donated to girls who need them.

"I feel like it's a great program because the prom has become so incredibly expensive and even though Westborough has many wealthy families, there are so many teens that are not well-off who could use some extra help," said McGrath. "The best part is that for so many people that donate dresses, they are just so happy to know that the dresses are going to a good home and it's a great way to clean out a closet.

In addition, at a later date, there will also be a Special Occasion Boutique open to patrons of all ages who want to "shop" for a dress since we received many dresses that are suitable for many different special occasions. Anyone who is interested in "shopping" but can't make on the shopping days, can also contact the library and we will set up appointments where they can come in and shop.

Prom-A-Palooza is sponsored by the Teen Advisory Board of the Westborough libraries with help from the WHS Student Council and Westborough TV. Contact Jen McGrath at 508-366-3050 or jmcgrath@town.westborough.ma.us for donation information.

Photo Credit: Rick Diamond/Getty Images/Entertainment