MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Prom season is here, meaning families will spend hundreds to make sure their teen has a night to remember. The Memphis Police Department is stepping in to help eliminate some of those costs.
It’s a night many teens will remember for the rest of their lives but getting there comes at a cost. Hair, shoes, accessories, and most importantly, the outfit, can have families spending hundreds of dollars.
“It’s about $1,000 out the pocket for one suit. That’s just the suit alone. You still got other things you got to consider, like her dress, if you want to wear jewelry, a bow tie, and everything that comes with it. It’s just a lot,” said Mardriquez Horton.
For the third year, the Memphis Police Department hosted its Prom Closet.
From suits to prom gowns to shoes, the Hollywood Community Center was filled with everything a teen would need to feel good for their special night. And it was all free of charge.
“Everything from small to plus sizes. There’s a variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and lengths. It’s something for everybody,” said Melanie Dorsey, Neighborhood Watch Coordinator at Crump Station.
Dorsey says the community donated over 1,000 dresses and 350 tuxedos. Sizing was also not a factor since a tailor was nearby to ensure everything fit just right.
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“It’s a good time for the teens as well as the parents to interact with the police on another level because we’re still trying to bridge that gap between community and police,” she said.
Angel White says she is overwhelmed with joy knowing a price tag won’t stop her daughter from having a night she’ll never forget.
“It’s a good moment. I’m really happy,” said White.
