Used prom gowns, formal wear sought for free shop

NEWTON — Project Self-Sufficiency is seeking donations of formal wear for the agency’s third annual “Sister-to-Sister” Prom Shop. High school students who are in need of a prom gown are can register for the opportunity to receive a free, new or gently-used dress. The shop will be open on Thursdays from March 18 to April 22, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the agency’s Community Education Center in Newton. The “Sister-to-Sister” Prom Shop was conceived two years ago by Isabella Ilaria, a student at Gill St. Bernard’s school and a budding philanthropist, who with a group of friends, donated 100 gowns to Project Self-Sufficiency. Now in its third year, the shop routinely receives donations of more than 200 dresses each year. The agency is accepting the donation of new and gently-used dresses, and all types of formal wear will be accepted, from bridesmaids’ dresses, gowns for mothers-of-the-bride, evening bags, jewelry, wraps and shawls, as well as shoes in good condition. Dresses must be dry cleaned and on a hanger. Donations will be accepted Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by special arrangement. Donations are requested by March 1, so that the items can be properly arranged for display. However, other formal wear will gladly be accepted through the duration of the shop’s operations. The Prom Shop is free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. Call 973-940-3500 for more information.