With prom tickets, and the attire to fit the evening; prom can cost a lot of money. An organization named Belle of the Ball helps girls with low income go to prom in a “dream dress”. This organization was created by Susan Schwartz, and a few of her old daughters’ dresses. Only open twice a year, the shop allows all girls from all over the state who are attending prom and have low income to return home with a used dress.

When Susan Schwartz attended her high school prom, she faced some financial difficulties.  Purchasing her dress from Kmart, Schwartz “vowed to help other girls in need” and started the nonprofit organization in 2003. As Ms. Schwartz explained, she started with a couple of dresses and reached out to several businesses and schools. Quickly growing attention, Susan now has about four thousand dresses, and is excited to hand them out.  Susan believes “No girl should be denied the opportunity to attend her high school dance because of financial difficulties”.

Anyone is allowed to send in a dress to the boutique, as long as it’s in good condition. The only stipulation is you cannot hand deliver it; it must be sent through mail.  The address to send the dress to is 10036 S. Riviera PT.,  Homosassa, Fl 34448.

Ms. Claerhout, senior data tech, is one of several people donating an old dress to student. As Ms.Claerhout explained, “it was just laying around, and I wanted to give another girl a Cinderella-like experience”. 

Along with giving away dresses, Belle of the Ball allows volunteers from high schools. During the time spent at the location, students can also earn Bright Future hours. For more information go to Belle of the Ball’s website.