2020 Project Prom Shopping Days

The exciting countdown to Prom has begun but unfortunately for some teens the expense could make attending prom out of reach. InnerAct Alliance and youth coalition, UthMpact, are proud to present the 8^th year of the Project Prom effort to provide formal wear and accessories to deserving high school students and educate youth and parents in our community about the risky behaviors that may occur during prom and graduation time. Students with a Polk County School ID can sign a Project Prom Pledge to celebrate being drug-free and receive dresses and suits for FREE!

Project Prom Student Shopping Days are underway at the Project Prom Store, located in the Lakeland Square Mall, 3800 U.S. Highway 98 North in Lakeland (old Sears wing). A Grand Opening took place on February 29 with a ribbon cutting by Lakeland City Commissioner, Philip Walker, and 50 students celebrated with complimentary prom attire. A Project Prom pop-up shop was also held on February 15 at the Auburndale Methodist Church where 20 students received free prom attire. This was a new addition to reach out to students and families from outlying areas of our community who may have transportation challenges travelling to the store in Lakeland.

Additional shopping days at the Project Prom Store will take place on Saturday, March 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, March 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm., and Saturday, April 4, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 pm.

Community members may support this effort by donating gently used dresses, shoes, men’s suits, ties, and other accessories. Formal wear donations may be dropped off on the shopping dates at the Project Prom Store or at the InnerAct Alliance office on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. UthMpact’s goal is promote a fun and safe Prom Night. For more information, please contact Samantha Barwig, UthMpact Coordinator, at (863) 802-0777.