(Coon Rapids, Iowa) – A non-profit business in Guthrie County, this month, is offering those who can’t afford a new dress for their prom, opportunities to receive a pre-used dress, for free. They’re also accepting donations for floor-length gowns from prom, to make available to young ladies in need. Dona Tuel runs the non-profit, “Prom Closet” located at the Ascension Lutheran Church in Coon Rapids (406 5th Avenue South).

She says it’s a fun thing to do, and very needed, because prom dresses are very expensive. Tuel says they don’t take money for the dresses and accessories.

There are several locations to drop-off good condition, pre-owned dresses in western Iowa any time of the year. That includes banks and Catholic charities. All items collected are hung-up on hangers and minor repairs are made. Volunteers hand-wash any dresses that come in, if needed.

Photo from The Prom Closet Facebook page

Shoes, jewelry and purses are also available to accessorize the dress. Dona said the need for prom dresses to be free or at least affordable, is high, because the price for something that will likely be used only once, is very high. The price can be a deterrent to enjoying an event that young women look forward to every year.

She says the hope of everyone at the Prom Closet is that everyone regardless of their financial circumstances, is able to attend Prom and have that memory.

Dress sizes come in a variety of colors and styles. The range in size from double-zero to 28-by-30. Sizes 16 and up are most desired by the Prom Closet, because they don’t have as many of them. All sizes in any color are needed, though.

Free Shopping Days at the Prom Closet in Coon Rapids, are scheduled for:

• Saturday, February 3 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Saturday, February 10, from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Saturday, February 17, from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Saturday, February 24, from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Sunday, February 18, from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
• Sunday February 25, from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

For more information, call Dona Tuel at 712-830-7825. On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/promclosetdresses