Kenmore, NY…March 21, 2016… It’s almost that time of year when young high school ladies start
thinking about their prom and what dress they might possibly wear to the big event. Well, for the 11th straight year, Colvin Cleaners of Kenmore, New York is helping to make that choice a little easier and less stressful for these ladies.
The 11th Annual “Gowns For Prom”, sponsored by Colvin Cleaners is underway! They will be collecting new and gently used gowns, shoes, purses and accessories from March 21st through April 16th.
People can donate gowns at several locations throughout the area including any of the seven Ted’s Hot Dog locations; the three BAC for Women facilities; the Boulevard Mall; all Dash’s Markets locations and of course, Colvin Cleaners located at 2375 Elmwood Avenue in Kenmore, NY.
“This is one of the most exciting and fun projects that we run all year” stated Colvin Cleaners Owner and President, Paul Billoni. After the prom gowns are collected at the various locations, they are then brought to Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo where there will be a full staff for alterations so their gown will fit perfect. The young ladies then select from over 4,000 gowns on the stage of Shea’s.
There are three floors of changing rooms at Shea’s where the girls try on their gowns while professional tailors measure the gowns on the girls for any alterations that need to be made.
“This is quite an experience for these girls to step onto the stage of beautiful Shea’s and pick out a
gorgeous gown which will be tailored specifically for them” Billoni said.
After the alterations are made, the gowns are then cleaned and packaged for that “like new look”, for these would be prom queens. Best of all, it doesn’t cost them or their parents anything. Colvin Cleaners provides all of these services for FREE!
Young ladies in need are encouraged to check with their school to see if they have a designated day
assigned to them.
“Last year we serviced more than 55 high schools and over the last eleven years we have collected over 22,000 gowns and distributed over 8,500 gowns to young ladies. Each year this event becomes more successful because of the generosity of the people of Western New York” Billoni explained.
The prom gown distribution days at Shea’s are April 18, 19 and 20 from 3pm-8pm. If your school is not
signed up already, you can sign up on our website at www.colvincleaners.com.