Prom season is just around the corner – a special time for hundreds of young Miltonians.
But what if the cost of outfitting yourself for that memorable night is just too burdensome?
The idea that many local teens will be asking themselves that very question doesn’t sit well with Milton Public Library’s customer service associate Megan Hutt.
To that end, she recently proposed a formal wear collection drive that’s now underway at all three Milton branches (Main, Beaty and Sherwood).
“Just seeing how much inequality there is in the community is tough,” said Hutt, who’s leading the first-year initiative alongside Teen services librarian Corrina McGill. “Prom is such a special occasion; we don’t want anyone having a socio-economic barrier to end their high school years.”
Throughout April, gently-used dresses and suits, shoes and accessories will be accepted during library hours, with larger sizes in particular demand.
Said McGill, “They just need to be clean and in good shape. And ask yourself one thing… we know you loved it, but will a teen love it too?”
On May 15 and 16, prom-goers can stop by the Sherwood branch from 4 to 9 p.m. to select their outfit, with a fitting room set up at the 6355 Main St. location.
"Come in and see what suits your personality and style," said Hutt, who hopes the collection drive becomes an annual endeavour, especially with new high schools Elsie MacGill and St. Kateri Tekakwitha set to have their first graduating classes next year.
Said McGill, “It’s a way to connect with teens, to show them we’re a source for more than just books."