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For some young ladies the thought of spending a minimum of $600 (gown/dress, hair, makeup, prom ticket, shoes, nails, dinner, etc.) on prom is not an option. A Suffolk school organization wants to make their dreams come true.

Nansemond River High School’s DECA chapter, in partnership with C3 Concierge LLC and Tamiya Davis Inc., is hosting the Gowns for Crowns Prom Dress Collection and Giveaway event on Saturday, March 12, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the school.

The mission is to collect and distribute prom dresses and accessories to students in Hampton Roads “to provide them with the opportunity to make lifelong memories and enjoy this important milestone.”

“This event will not only allow young ladies who are not able to financially attend prom to do so but will also increase their confidence and help offset the cost for their parents,” said Candace Credle, Nansemond River High School DECA co-adviser.

The chapter has collected over 500 prom dresses since the initiative began in December 2019, but distribution was delayed for two years due to COVID-19 and many schools canceling their proms.

“We are excited to be able to host our event this year and help those who will be attending their 2022 prom and have the support of our very own ‘Prom Fairy Godmother,’ Ms. Coko ‘Cheryl’ Gamble of the legendary R&B group SWV, who will be blessing one young lady with a prom gift,” Credle said.

Dresses will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets to shop for a dress are available at bit.ly/GownsForCrowns2022.

Each student can be accompanied by one adult. COVID-19 protocols will be followed.

Sponsors include Nansemond River High School, King’s Fork High School, the Suffolk School Board, Connecting Communities LLC, Curvaceous Boutique, Fly Girl Boutique, McEllis Bridal At McMannen Plaza, and Tri-Cities Home Services LLC.

For more information contact Credle at 757-923-4101 or candacecredle@spsk12.net.