(Photos courtesy of Lunch Break)
By BRIAN DONOHUE
It’s one of the most heartwarming events of the year: students finding the perfect prom dress or formalwear that was donated by another member of the community. Lunch Break sent us this update via press release on their 2025 Annual Prom Attire Giveaway event last weekend – and the growing and continued demand for the services the agency provides.
From Lunch Break:
Lunch Break’s Annual Prom Giveaway took center stage at Tower Hill Church, as the community ensured local students an opportunity to choose outfits that will make them shine on their special night.
More than 135 students selected from stunning prom attire, thanks to an outpouring of donations that included beautiful dresses, suits, jewelry, shoes, purses and more.
“It was another fabulous Prom Attire Giveaway this year!” said Fatima Carranza, Program and Outreach Coordinator at Lunch Break. “We were blessed to collect over 1,000 beautiful dresses and suits for the students in our community. Seeing the faces of the girls light up when they found ‘the dress’ was such a wonderful moment! I’m glad we are able to help create such memorable moments for these young students during an important time. A huge thank you to everyone in our community who contributed to
such an amazing day!”
The annual event is made possible by the generosity of individuals and businesses who donate gently used and new formalwear, giving young people the opportunity to attend prom feeling confident and special.
Gwendolyn Love, Executive Director of Lunch Break, emphasized the significance of this effort: “It is so beautiful to see the donors pass on their treasured personal items for our young community members to make new memories that will last a new lifetime.”
Beyond the Prom Giveaway, Clara’s Closet, Lunch Break’s clothing distribution program, continues to see
an increasing demand for essential items.
In 2024 alone, there were 24,104 visits to Clara’s Closet – a staggering 105% increase over 2023. This surge underscores the ongoing need for donations of clothing to support individuals and families facing economic hardship.
Lunch Break extends its heartfelt gratitude to all donors, volunteers and supporters who played a role in
making the 2025 Prom Giveaway a success.
Their kindness and commitment continue to uplift and empower local youth, proving that a community united can make a lasting impact. As the need for clothing assistance grows, Lunch Break encourages continued donations to help meet the increasing
demand.
For more information about Lunch Break and current needs at Clara’s Closet, visit www.lunchbreak.org.
redbankgreen editor Brian Donohue may be reached via email at [email protected] or by calling or texting 848-331-8331 or yelling his name loudly as he walks by. Do you value the news coverage provided by redbankgreen? Please become a financial supporter if you haven’t already. Click here to set your own level of monthly or annual contribution.
