Project: PROM aims to give teens prom dresses and suits

The Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence is expecting to receive more donated prom dresses in support of Project: PROM.

Coalition program assistant Keala Peters said that they have received at least 25 dresses, 10 of which were donated by Pena House boutique while the rest are from the public.

This number does not include those that have been received at their project’s various drop-off locations like Handbags, etc. along Beach Road in Oleai and at Marianas High School.

What they need right now, Peters noted, are prom apparel for male students like suits, tuxedos, dress shirts, and ties.

Peters said they anticipate collecting more prom dresses and suits from other public high schools and during tomorrow’s clothing drive at the Minatchom Atdao, having received several phone inquiries about the project and where they can deliver their donations. Saturday’s clothing drive will be from 10am to 2pm.

“We’ve done a good job raising awareness about the project through the numerous ads we did since last week,” Peters told Saipan Tribune. “We’re still hopeful that we will collect as many until Saturday.”

Project: PROM is the coalition’s new program supports Saipan’s public high school students by providing them with prom or special occasion dresses and suits. Recipients will be selected based on their interest in becoming an advocate against sexual violence or assault.

Peters said junior and high school students interested to receive donations should obtain a form from their school counselors. The form requires the student to write an essay on how to be an advocate. Deadline to submit the form and qualify for a donated dress or suit is on April 11.

Donated items will be distributed to eligible recipients on April 14 in time for the prom season, which is from late April until mid-May.

During the distribution, the coalition and the group Teen Talk will host a workshop covering topics such as confidence building, prom etiquette, healthy relationships, and hair and makeup tips. It will be held at the Multi-Purpose Center from 1pm to 4pm.

The project is part of the celebration of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April. For more information, contact Peters at 234-3878 or email kealapeters670@gmail.com.