Free Prom Dresses For Low Income Families in Western Kentucky

Cinderella's Closet is a non-profit organization that gives out hundreds of prom gowns and accessories annually to those who can't afford them. Shouldn't all high school girls around Western Kentucky feel like a princess on their special day? Here's how you can help make those dreams a reality.

Prom is a big deal, especially for seniors in high school. It's one of the last big parties before graduation. Many parents can't afford to spend a small fortune on something that will only be worn once. I didn't have a lot of money growing up so when it came time to purchase my prom dress, I had to work to cover half of the expense. I was lucky to have the opportunity to get the dress of my dreams. So many others aren't so lucky. Luckily, Cinderella's Closet is there to help.

Get our free mobile app

WHAT IS CINDERELLA'S CLOSET?

Cinderella’s Closet began as a ministry of Immanuel United Methodist Church in Lakeside Park, KY in 2006. It’s an effort inspired by a teenager, our founder, Erin Peterson met while shopping at a consignment store. Erin overheard the teenager ask a clerk if the beautiful, gently-used gown on display could be put on hold while she figured out how to pay for it.

She asked her foster mother for the money, but a prom dress is an extra in life, and its price was out of their reach. Seeing her disappointment, Erin bought the dress for her. As tears flooded her eyes, said she would look “just like Cinderella.” One day, a little girl was transformed into a princess.

Erin was transformed as well. Shortly thereafter, Cinderella’s Closet became a ministry of Immanuel United Methodist Methodist Church.

Cinderella's Closet has been turning dresses into dreams ever since that day. They take in donated prom dresses and give them to girls in need in the communities in which they serve.

Currently, Cinderella's Closet locations can be found in Kentucky, Ohio, Arkansas, California, Florida, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.

HOW TO DONATE PROM DRESSES & ACCESSORIES IN WESTERN KENTUCKY

If you are interested in donating a new or gently used prom dress (less than 3 years old and in excellent condition) to Cinderella's Closet. Donations can be dropped off at Owensboro Christian Church on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 AM until Noon. Go to Entrance D and when you enter the door, there is a rack to the left for you to hang dresses. Don't forget the sparkly jewelry, purses, and shoes too!

I'm going to clean out my closet soon. I have many formal gowns that I've worn to events over the years. Most have only been worn once, and I have some with the tags still on them. I know they'll feel like a princess when they see themselves in the dress. I know the expenses can add up quickly, but nobody should miss the prom because they can't afford a dress.

CINDERELLA'S CLOSET IN WESTERN KENTUCKY NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are always needed to sort dresses and accessories. If you're age 20 and older, sign up to be a Fairy Godmother today. Help will be needed for the spring "Turn Dresses into Dreams" events. Maybe you could host a fundraiser to receive donations, or pick up dresses at certain locations. Volunteers have already been working with the schools to sign up students and educate staff about Cinderella's Closet mission. You can call Sarah Mattingly for more information at (270) 302-2709.

HOW THE PRINCESS REFERRAL PROCESS WORKS

To receive a prom package (dress, shoes, and accessories) from Cinderella’s Closet you must meet the following requirements:

You must be referred by your principal/counselor, community organization staff, or social care agency. You must also be a junior or senior enrolled and attending high school. You must bring a student ID or Drivers License to your appointment.

If you meet the above criteria, please have your school counselor or social care agency contact Cinderella’s Closet in your area for referral information. Here is our contact information. Your referral will contact Cinderella’s Closet to make your appointment (Note: You cannot contact Cinderella’s Closet to make your appointment). Cinderella’s Closet will send an appointment certificate to your referral to give to you.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT CINDERELLA'S CLOSET

You will be able to select from our inventory of formal gowns guided by your fairy godmother. Accessories including shoes and jewelry will be chosen to complete your look, based on availability. Minor Alterations will be provided on-site to make your dress fit for a princess. All items are free of charge and are yours to keep.

Please allow two hours for your appointment. Remember to bring your student ID or Drivers License.