To the Editor:
The Princess For a Night (PFAN) project is collecting dry-cleaned tuxedos, dresses, shoes, handbags, jewelry, unused make-up (for example, sample cosmetics), and "nice" shopping bags through April 28. Donations can be dropped off at the T.C. Williams Main Office, 3330 King St., Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
The generosity of women in the community has allowed young ladies across the region to attend prom without breaking the bank. In April, dresses and other prom essentials are collected at various drop-off points throughout the area. Then, in May, events are held at T.C. Williams High School and three other local high schools, where young ladies can select dresses, shoes, handbags and jewelry free of charge. In past years, more than 500 beautiful dresses (as well as shoes, jewelry, and handbags) were donated to the project. Each year the project has expanded to serve more and more students.
The project especially needs dresses for full-figured young ladies (sizes 18+). Please do not donate velvet or wintry dresses, soiled items, outdated items, casual dresses or items for mature women, as they cannot be used. Cash and check donations are also needed. Checks can be made out to "Neediest Kids Fund" c/o Susan Parcell.
If you know of a young lady in need of a dress, "shopping" and dress selection will take place at T.C. Williams on Friday, April 29, 3:30-6:30 p.m., and Saturday, April 30, 9 a.m.-noon. Enter through the Chinquapin Drive entrance and follow the signs.
Students will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. All students from throughout the Northern Virginia area are welcome. It is strongly recommended that parents accompany their daughters to participate in dress selection. Dresses are free, but donations will be accepted to support the ongoing project.
For latest updates please check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/princessfanight
If you have any questions or would like to volunteer to assist with the project, please e-mail Eleanor Muse at eleanor.muse@acps.k12.va.us.
Susan Parcell
T.C. Williams High School