First ever “PROM CLOSET” event set for Topeka Feb. 27

Everyone needs more room in our closets. One of the biggest space hogs is formal and semi-formal dresses! Many men’s closets are filled with semi-formal attire as well. A donation to Topeka High School’s “Prom Closet” will help you find that much needed space.

The Prom Closet is a new event for 2010 sponsored by the Topeka High After Prom Committee. It provides a place for Topeka students to shop for formal attire and accessories in an easy and economical way, and raise money for a good cause at the same time.

After Prom co-chair and mother of two Topeka High students, Andrea Hartzell said, “It is such a great opportunity for my girls to clean out their closets and know the dresses are going to a good cause. It also allows them to not only “recycle” the many dresses in their closets, but shoes and accessories, too.”

On February 6, 13 and 20, from 10 a.m.-1-p.m. donations of gently used formal and semi-formal dresses and men’s dress attire will be accepted at First Congregational Church, 1701 SW Collins, Topeka. Students that donate an item of clothing will receive a coupon good toward a percent off their purchase at the Prom Closet. If you are unable to drop your donations off on the any of the above dates, contact any of the co-coordinators to make arrangements.

Gently used formal dresses in any length, style, color, and size are needed. We would also like gently used accessories such as evening shoes, bags, wraps, and costume jewelry.

In addition to dresses and ladies’ accessories, we’ll also be accepting men’s dress shirts, dress slacks (no casual pants), blazers, suits, dress shoes, ties, and belts in various sizes and colors.

“Please bring in clean dresses in good repair, and ready to wear,” said event co-organizer Shawn Johnson.

Receipts for the donations will be provided for tax purposes.

The “Prom Closet” will be open on Saturday, February 27, 2010, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fitting rooms will be available. Prom dresses will cost $10=$50, blazers will be $10, and accessories will be priced as marked. Bring in your student ID and a receive a special bonus.

All proceeds from the Prom Closet will go toward the Topeka High After Prom event.

For anyone interested in making a monetary donation to the Topeka High After Prom, make checks payable to THS After Prom, Attn. Andrea Hartzell, 3512 SW Moundview, Dr., Topeka, Kan.

For questions or more information about the Prom Closet or THS After Prom contact Shawn Johnson at skjohnson87@yahoo.com or 785-554-3434; Jamai Luna at jamailuna@att.net or 785-250-7225; and Andrea Hartzell, andihart@cox.net or 785-230-3574.