Capital Region community center, organization making prom more affordable

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- With prom season underway, it can be difficult to find that perfect outfit without breaking the bank. That's why two local community organizations are working to make prom a little more affordable for students.

At the Capital Region BOCES Career & Technical Education Center, global fashion students are providing low-cost dress options for their peers. As part of three Cinderella Prom Dress events, the students collected around 200 new and used gowns and spent hours ironing, steaming and even making minor repairs.

"It's awesome to help someone find the perfect dress because it's such a pivotal part of a teen's life," said Guilderland senior Bee Cisneros.

Each of the gowns, which are mostly prom and bridesmaid styles, will be sold to other BOCES students for $5 each. The first two sales were held on Monday and Tuesday, with the final event scheduled for Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1:10 p.m. Proceeds will go towards an on-campus charity.

"It feels good to see all of these dresses get upcycled and to help people out at such a low cost," said Hannah Ralston, a senior from Guilderland.

The general community also has the opportunity to get a more affordable outfit for prom. On Saturday, the Bethel Northside Community Center will sell prom dresses and suits for $20 each.

The sale will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., located at 1840 Van Vranken Avenue in Schenectady. Proceeds from each sold dress or suit will go to the community center's food pantry. Attendees are encouraged to sign up for a shopping time slot.