Prom dress program helps every teen sparkle

Elizabeth Flores, Star Tribune

Nancy Yang, 17, was fitted for shoes at last year’s Operation Glass Slipper at Southdale Mall. The program offers free prom outfits to girls who otherwise couldn’t afford them.

Last update: March 26, 2008 - 11:53 PM

A nonprofit program to give prom dresses to young women who otherwise couldn't afford them will sponsor its second giveaway April 5-6 at the Mall of America.

About 400 volunteers for Operation Glass Slipper Inc. are expected to outfit about 1,000 teens for their proms. That's twice as many as last year.

Teenagers will be able to select from more than 4,000 dresses, and organizers say they have enough shoes, purses, jewelry, shawls and makeup for every participant.

The program collects donated prom gowns and new or gently used formal, bridesmaid and cocktail dresses, shawls, shoes and clutch bags. Used items are cleaned and stored until they can be donated.

To get a dress, high school students must have an appointment and be referred to the Operation Glass Slipper through a counselor, teacher or a clergy member. Girls should bring a referral or verification form and a current school ID.

The program isn't accepting any more donations for this year's event but will begin collecting clothing again later this year. For more information or to get help for teenagers who still need a dress, go to www.operationglassslipper.org.

MARY JANE SMETANKA