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Project Prom Helps Ease Financial Burden For Students

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Teens across the area are gearing up for prom.

The dance can be pricey between buying a dress, shoes, and jewelry.

Some students wouldn't be able to afford it, if it weren't for a local program called Project Prom.

"There's so many dresses, there is a lot to pick from, many different styles and i think there is something to fit everyone," Nicole Carter said.

A boutique-like shop was set up at Century III Mall in West Mifflin and is home to Project Prom.

It's a program that provides prom essentials such as the dress, shoes and accessories all free of charge to qualifying students.

"Going to the prom is one of those unifying events that everybody can enjoy. Ten years from now, everybody will talk about their prom experience," Ondrea Burton said.

Project Prom is in its 11th year and has grown tremendously.

It's helped so many families.

National statistics show that it costs about $1,100 on average for a student to go to the dance.

Project Prom eliminates that financial burden.

"To be able to just have your pick and not have to worry about what the dress costs and to get accessories with it, that's priceless," Carter said.

"For them to be able to come and have this experience and be able to have the beautiful gown and all the accessories to go with it, is really important," Burton said.

Without Project Prom, some of these students would no doubt miss out on prom and the memories that go with it.

"It's making dreams come true and I feel so blessed to be able to provide this opportunity," Burton said.

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