Operation Prom To Return To Westchester County Center

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Operation Prom, which paused its charitable efforts for three years due to COVID and flood damage from Hurricane Ida, is returning to the Westchester County Center.

The three-day event will provide high-quality, high-style free and low-cost prom dresses and tuxedos to high school students in Westchester County from Friday, April 28 through Sunday, April 30.

The schedule is:

• Friday, April 28: Free dresses and tuxedos are available for high school groups by reservation only. Schools can make reservations via email.
• Saturday, April 29: Free dresses and tuxedos will be available for all high school seniors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Sunday, April 30: Dresses only will be available to all students and the general public for a $10 donation per dress.

This year, the county is also making Bee-Line bus trips to the County Center free for all students participating in Operation Prom. Students should show their school IDs and mention Operation Prom to bus drivers.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said it was exciting that Operation Prom is able to return to the County Center.

“Figuring out what to wear to the prom can be stressful enough without also worrying about how you’re going to be able to afford to look your best,” he said. “We’re very appreciative of the work Operation Prom does to make sure every Westchester high schooler can go to their prom in style, and we’re proud to help make it even more affordable this year with free bus service.”

Leonard G. Townes, the county’s Department of Social Services commissioner, said that retail prices for prom dresses can be hundreds of dollars and even renting a tuxedo can run more than $100.

“For many Westchester students and their families, especially in our current inflationary environment, these costs are just not affordable,” he said.

Noel D’Allacco-Ammirati, founder of Operation Prom National Network Inc., said she was thrilled that Operation Prom was back at the County Center.

“No one should miss out on their prom because they can’t afford a dress or a tuxedo,” she said, “and I invite everyone to join us.”

The Westchester County Center is located at 198 Central Ave. in White Plains.