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Young Women in Search of Prom Gowns Can Attend Cinderella Project of New Hampshire Boutiques

HOOKSETT – The Cinderella Project of New Hampshire, a non-profit organization that gives formal gowns and accessories to young women facing financial hardship, has boutique days available for students to try on and take home their perfect prom gown.

The organization is taking its gowns on the road for a boutique at Con Val High School, Route 202 North in Peterborough on Saturday, April 8 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Boutique days are also available at The Cinderella Project’s headquarters at 1100 Daniel Webster Highway in Community Plaza in Hooksett by appointment.

Young women will have the chance to browse racks of gowns, shoes and accessories and try them on before deciding on a formal outfit for their special event. The selection includes never-worn and gently-worn gowns donated by bridal shops and others throughout New England, including Country Bridals and Formal Wear of Jaffrey, NH. Gowns are in a variety of styles, colors and sizes, including petite and plus.

Teens who qualify for public assistance are the primary beneficiaries of the program, which relies on recommendations from school officials, counselors, social workers, parents and others who interact with young women. Recipients are required to have a referral form completed by a school official, social services worker or parent to verify financial status. Individual circumstances are also carefully considered and all donations are made on a confidential basis.

The Cinderella Project has also started a program to give military brides-to-be a chance to pick out the perfect gown for a dream wedding. The organization has in stock brand new, designer gowns donated by bridal shops. Women interested in the wedding gowns need only call the Cinderella Project with their size preferences and a range of bridal gowns will be brought to the boutiques to try on.

In 2005, The Cinderella Project provided formal gowns and accessories free of charge to more than 475 young women across the state, including more than 100 during two traveling boutiques to New Hampshire’s North Country. Since it’s inception in 2002, the group has assisted more than 1,000 young women.

Though walk-in referrals are welcome, advanced notice of attendance at boutiques is appreciated, and will ensure a wide selection of gowns in the sizes needed. Women interested in attending a boutique must call the Cinderella Project of New Hampshire at (603) 472-8043 or Mary Lou O’Neil for the Con Val boutique at (603) 371-0311. The organization can also be contacted via the web site www.thecinderellaprojectofnhorg. The Cinderella Project of New Hampshire is a non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) status.

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