The calendar may have just turned, but it's not too early to begin thinking about what to wear to those upcoming formal and semi-formal school dances.
In tough economic times, many students and parents are unable to afford the cost of what has become extravagant affairs, so Enfield resident Patti Magnuson is organizing the second annual "Dress For Less."
The event will take place Saturday, Feb. 25 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at , 1295 Enfield St., Enfield.
Last year's inaugural sale resulted in the donation of nearly 200 gently-used formal and semi-formal dresses, including bridesmaid dresses and prom gowns. Magnuson said she received a significant donation last week from a local business owner.
The cost per dress is $27, which includes a voucher good for a boutonniere at , and a $20 certificate toward dry cleaning at . No profit is made from the sale, but the benefit to area students is tremendous.
"Parents have a hard enough time providing kids what they need, never mind a luxury," Magnuson, a mother of four, explained. "For some families, the cost of getting outfitted for even an 8th-grade semi-formal is prohibitive. Kids should be able to go to their proms without spending a fortune."
To donate a dress or for more information, contact Magnuson at 860-836-5994, or via email at pjmtbib@hotmail.com.
