HUNTINGTON, NY – April 29, 2026
The gym at the Senior Center was transformed into something truly special for this year’s Project Prom, no longer just a recreational space, but a full showroom experience complete with a dressing room, runway, and staged racks of gowns in every color and size lined the room, alongside short formal dresses, sharp suits, shoes, jewelry, and purses – everything a student might need to feel confident and celebrated on prom night. Volunteers were on hand every step of the way, helping students choose outfits, offering honest feedback, and making sure each young person walked away with something that felt just right.
This remarkable event is the result of a year-long effort by the Town of Huntington, the Huntington Youth Bureau, and officers from the Suffolk County Police Department 2nd Precinct. Together, they collect, clean, and carefully store donations so that when prom season arrives, students can browse a wide selection of formalwear at no cost. General Services even constructs dressing rooms to give students a true boutique-style experience, while police officers and volunteers assist both girls and boys in finding outfits that fit and shine.
Councilwoman Theresa Mari, a longtime supporter of Project Prom, reflected on the heart behind the initiative and the generosity of the community that makes it possible. “Our community is so wonderful. They donate dresses, shoes, and jewelry, so that all of our young boys and girls in high school will feel special going to their Prom,” she said. Many of the items are brand new, while others are gently worn and professionally cleaned before being displayed.” Mari also highlighted the joy of the experience itself, noting, “It’s awesome to watch the kids and if they want to they go on the little stage built just for this and ‘Say yes to the dress’ with a sign…they get to leave here feeling really good.”
On the other side of the room, young men had their own “store,” filled with suits and supported by a dedicated group of officers helping with sizing and styling. The goal is simple but powerful: ensure that every student, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to feel confident and celebrated on one of the most memorable nights of their high school experience.
Huntington Citizens Advocate Michelle Wright, another key organizer, emphasized both the scale and impact of the initiative. “So many great dresses, and this year we had the biggest donation that we’ve had so far,” she shared. “We’ve already donated about 1,000 dresses to schools in Queens and a church in Brooklyn.” The reach of Project Prom extends well beyond Huntington, with additional donations planned for William Floyd High School and possibly even a special day for seniors to visit the center and select a dress before items are distributed elsewhere.
Project Prom continues to be a meaningful and uplifting event for the community’s youth, ensuring that no student has to miss out on prom due to financial barriers. Those who wish to contribute can donate gently used formalwear, dresses, suits, shoes, or accessories in good condition. Items should be free of stains or damage so they can be ready for a student’s big night. To find out how to donate, community members are encouraged to contact the Huntington Youth Bureau and be part of this inspiring effort to make prom dreams come true.
Photography by Dana E. Richter.
