Students take home free prom clothing from Morris Heights giveaway

Organizers told News 12 the event aimed to provide students with the opportunity to experience prom and alleviate the burden of the hefty cost.

Marissa Santorelli

Apr 2, 2025, 9:21 PM

Updated 19 hr ago

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The Bronx Transition and College Access Center, or TCAC, and the United Federation of Teachers provided more than 800 students with free clothes for their prom. Organizers told News 12 the event aimed to provide students with the opportunity to experience prom and alleviate the burden of the hefty cost. The Roberto Clemente State Park Recreation Center was filled with hundreds of free dress, tuxedos, shoes, ties and more. Lead organizer and office manager at TCAC, Melissa Rodriguez, said the event took her six months to plan. She said she vetted donations from dozens of vendors and businesses. She said the both parents and students arrived early to get first pick at the options. "Some of them seemed like they wanted to cry, that's how happy they were," said Rodriguez. The event even featured free haircuts and manicures, providing students with discounted services ahead of their prom. Students tried on dresses, posed in front of backdrops and got their photos taken. "You can see the impact almost immediately...we saw a couple of young ladies come out with their dresses and they're super excited about it," said Akile Stewart, instructional specialist at the TCAC. The event will return next season. To donate formal attire contact the Bronx TCAC's office. Here are similar Bronx giveaway events and donations location lined up for this prom season: The Bronx Borough President's Office is hosting its annual "Prom Dress & Suit Giveaway." It will take place on April 11 from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Bronx Borough Hall Rotunda. BronxWorks is currently accepting donations for new or lightly used formal clothing. It is accepting donations through May 9. Donation drop-off is open weekdays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at two locations: The BronxWorks Carolyn McLaughlin Community Center and BronxWorks Administrative Office. The Bronx District Attorney's Office, in partnership with Bronx Fashion Week, is also accepting donations of new or lightly used formal clothing. It is accepting donations until April 18. Donation drop-off is weekdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Bronx District Attorney's Office. The 52nd Precinct, in partnership with the Tracey Towers Tenants Association, is also accepting similar donations through April 5.
Donation drop-off is weekdays, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at 40 Mosholu Pkwy S, Community Room B.