When most people think about prom, they envision an evening of dancing with friends as they close the final chapter on their high school career, but for some, a lack of outfit can stand in the way.

With prom season approaching, Student Life and Community Experience is partnering with the Education Foundation of Niagara to donate gently used dresses, suits, shoes and other formal wear to local teens through Prom Project Niagara.

Student Life Assistant Eve Nyambiya said the early start to this year’s collection will allow Brock University students time to grab old outfits if they are home during the Winter Reading Week.

“We hope they will set aside a few minutes to take a look in their closets and see if there is anything they no longer need,” she said. “Donating items to make prom accessible to everyone is a great way to give back to the community and reduce the financial barriers experienced by some high school students.”

Donations will be collected until Friday, March 27 in the Student Life Involvement Commons (MCA 204) from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Items will later be distributed to local high school students at a Saturday, April 4 event from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at St. Catharines Collegiate.

To learn more, visit the Prom Project Niagara website or email studentlife@brocku.ca