Senator Parker Donates Prom Dresses To High School Teens At Annual Prom Dress Giveaway

Kevin S. Parker

June 3, 2009

Dreams do come true for hundreds of Brooklyn students this weekend

Brooklyn, NY- Groups of teenage girls huddle in a large dressing room at Samuel J. Tilden High School this Saturday desperately searching in hopes of finding the perfect gown at Senator Parker’s annual prom dress give-away. Most people consider a high school prom as a rite of passage, but that experience of glitz and glamour can be denied during these tough economic times.  However, Senator Parker teamed up with Sesame Flyers International, Inc. to give-away hundreds of new and gently used cocktail and evening gowns/dresses

“Prom night is such a special night in a young lady’s life, and it is a blessing for us to be able to provide these girls with elegant gowns for their evening,” said Senator Parker.  “This event is a great way we can interact with young ladies from the area and help them find that perfect dress.”

The girls, browsing in groups, were met by scores of volunteers who helped them choose just the right gown and match it with donated purses, shoes and jewelry.

"It’s just so amazing to see a girl try on a formal dress," said one of the volunteers. "Prom night was special to me and it’s special to these young women. It's something every woman can relate to, putting on a dress that makes you feel good and beautiful."

Once the girls selected a dress, they moved onto a make-up session led by Tina Bernard from Sue Devitt Studio who performed on-site make-up demonstrations. In addition, free raffle prizes were auctioned where one lucky winner received a personal designed couture dress from notable fashion designer Tori Nichel; one free family limousine pass to the prom; Chic Designs by Yvette Jones donated three piece fine handcrafted jewelry set and a collection of hair pins; gift certificates for an appointment at the local beauty/barbershops and a full hair care package from Dr. Miracle hair products were also among these prizes. 

Local retailers and organizations such as Gracepoint Gospel Fellowship Church “Lydia’s Closet Prom Dress Project”, Macy’s, RK Bridal, and the Salvation Army Brooklyn have been generous in donating over 200 new and gently used cocktail and evening dresses for their memorable event.  Local community volunteers who were also on hand to help each girl find the perfect gown.