ATC Operation Prom Exchange Seeks Donations

Operation Prom Exchange has begun in earnest at the (ATC) and the donations of new or gently-worn formal wear have started to arrive. The program, started by the student members of ATC, hopes to provide prom gowns to girls who otherwise could not afford to attend one of their most exciting high school events.

Taylor Stalsworth, a Hamden High School student who works at ATC, said that with the economy in such bad shape and dresses so expensive, it’s harder than ever to afford a prom gown, which can easily cost upwards of $200. Prom tickets alone, Stalsworth said, are a minimum of $80.

“They just want to have pretty dresses and good memories,” Stalsworth said.

The dresses at ATC will be available for loan, free of charge. The center only asks for a valid student ID, and that the items be brought back clean. If they don’t have them cleaned, they are asking for a $20 donation so ATC can have them cleaned. They are also hoping that if any accessories were purchased to match, that they be donated for the next girl who borrows the gown.

ATC is asking residents to drop off any new or gently-used formal dresses, tuxedos, shoes and prom accessories at ATC on Fridays and Saturdays from 3:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Donations will be accepted all year long.

Those receiving loner items may pick them up on the same days and times, from February through June.

For more information about the program, call Jen at 203-668-9384.