Colvin Cleaners Launches 2026 Gowns for Prom with Major Expansion: New Headquarters Unveiled to Provide “Boutique Experience” for Students

18^th Annual Gown Selection Event Ensures Every Student Will Have Gown for Their Prom

Desperate Need for Donations of Gowns Sizes 16 and Larger

KENMORE, NY – Colvin Cleaners is proud to announce the launch of its 2026 Gowns for Prom program, marking the most significant evolution in the program’s history. For the first time, the charitable initiative will operate out of its own dedicated headquarters at 2312 Elmwood Avenue, transforming the traditional giveaway event into a recurring, high-end boutique experience for Western New York high school students.

Historically, Gowns for Prom was held as a large-scale event over one or three days at the Buffalo Convention Center or Shea’s Buffalo. While exciting, the limited timeframe often made it difficult for families with working parents or students with extracurriculars to attend. The 2026 program addresses this by extending the selection period to two months and offering weekly appointments to ensure every student in need has the opportunity to select a gown, shoes, and accessories at no cost.

“This has always been the dream of the program,” said Chris Billoni, Vice President of Colvin Cleaners. “To see this program evolve from a three-day event to a permanent headquarters is amazing. The major events were fun, but they were limited for students with busy schedules. Now, with appointments available over two months, we can ensure that everyone who needs a gown can get one in a relaxed, beautiful setting.”

The new headquarters at 2312 Elmwood Avenue has been designed to replicate the feel of a high-end consignment boutique. Students will register online for one-hour appointments, during which they will be paired with volunteer “Gown Guides” to help them find their perfect look. The facility features custom fitting rooms and a wide selection of gowns, shoes, purses, and accessories.

Samantha Power, General Manager of Colvin Cleaners, emphasized the effort behind the new location: “Our team worked tirelessly to create this beautiful space for the students. We didn’t just want a distribution center; we wanted a space that felt special—somewhere students could feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated from the moment they walk through the doors.”

To accommodate busy schedules, the new headquarters will operate on a recurring weekly schedule:

Starting March 3^rd, 2026 until April 11^th, 2026:

·         Tuesdays & Thursdays:

o   Appointments from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Headquarters closes at 7:00 PM)

·         Saturdays:

o   Appointments from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Headquarters closes at 3:00 PM)

This extended schedule also creates more flexible opportunities for volunteers. Community members are needed more than ever to serve as Gown Guides, helping students navigate the racks and manage fitting rooms.

The program relies on the generosity of the Western New York community. Colvin Cleaners is currently accepting donations of gently used or new gowns, with a critical need for sizes 16 and larger, as well as purses and shoes.

“We are so proud to be a part of this community and are dedicated to giving back to the neighbors who have supported us for nearly 100 years,” said Paul Billoni, President & Owner of Colvin Cleaners. “Investing in this building was the right thing to do. It allows us to deepen our commitment to Western New York families and ensures that Gowns for Prom has a permanent home for years to come.”

Amanda Meggesto, Relations Manager, added, “It is amazing to help students realize their dream of going to prom. By removing the financial burden and providing a dignified, personal shopping experience, we are helping these students make memories that will last a lifetime.”

Students wishing to obtain a gown must register online for an appointment time slot. Donations can be dropped off at Colvin Cleaners and participating locations across WNY listed on the website.

For registration, volunteer sign-ups, and donation information, please visit www.gownsforprom.com.

About Colvin Cleaners A nearly 100-year-old family-owned business, Colvin Cleaners was founded by Phil Billoni and is now run by the 3^rd generation Billoni family. Today, it is the only WNY dry cleaner using the environmentally friendly Green Earth cleaning solution. The company proudly organizes the philanthropic, nonprofit programs Coats 4 Kids and Gowns for Prom, cleaning, sorting, and distributing thousands of items to those in need annually across WNY.