FRISCO, TEXAS ー For most high school students, prom is a milestone marked by excitement and anticipation. For others, the cost of formal wear can make attending feel out of reach. At St. Andrews Methodist Church in Plano, Texas, a long-running community program is working to change that.
The St. Andrews Prom Closet, operated by the women of St. Andrews, provides free prom dresses and accessories to high school girls who need them. The program is donation-based and designed to give students a boutique-style shopping experience at no cost.
The program began in 2009 after members of the Women of St. Andrew learned about students who were unable to attend prom because of financial barriers. What started as a small mission project has grown into a large community effort supported by church members, local organizations, and volunteers.
The goal of the organization is not only to provide clothing but also to create a positive and supportive experience.
“Prom Closet was created to offer a special shopping experience for young ladies who may not be able to afford a prom dress due to financial constraints,” the Women of St. Andrews shared in a statement.
Over the years, Prom Closet has served students from across Texas and several other states. Exchange students from countries including Germany, Poland, and Thailand have also participated and benefited. In 2025 alone, 1,320 students from more than 300 schools received dresses and accessories through the program.
Prom Closet will hold its 17th annual event Feb. 24 through Feb. 28, March 2 through March 5, and March 7, 2026. Thousands of donated dresses in sizes 0 to 30 are available, along with shoes, jewellery, handbags, and wraps.
Appointments are required for shoppers. Online registration for both shoppers and volunteers will open Jan. 26, 2026. Each student must be in high school and must attend her appointment in person to choose her own dress. One guest age 16 or older is allowed. During each 90-minute time slot, 40 students shop with the help of personal shopper volunteers.
The space is arranged like a boutique. After checking in, each student is paired with a volunteer who helps locate dresses in the correct size. Dressing rooms and accessory stations allow students to complete their look in one visit.
Prom Closet depends heavily on community support. Donations of dresses, shoes, and accessories are accepted year-round and can be dropped off at St. Andrew Methodist Church at 1401 Mira Vista Blvd. Monetary donations and purchases through an online Amazon link are also accepted.
Volunteers are another key part of the program. Around 500 volunteers help each year in roles such as personal shoppers, dressing room assistants, check-in staff, and setup crew. Adult volunteers must complete a background check before participating.
On behalf of the St. Andrew Methodist Women, organisers expressed gratitude to those who support the program.
“We want to express our sincere gratitude to all prom closet donors and volunteers who committed many hours of hard work to help make dreams come true,” the group shared
Those interested in donating, volunteering, or requesting more information can email [email protected] or call the Prom Closet hotline at 469-385-1810.
