Donate Dresses Through March 24

​Visitors to the Vernon Area Public Library are encouraged to drop off new or gently used formal dresses, dress shoes and other prom-appropriate accessories through March 24, 2024. 

The donations will make their way to the “Pop Up Prom Shoppe,” a partnership among Mothers Trust Foundation (MTF), Zengeler Cleaners, College of Lake County and University Center of Lake County.

The 2024 Pop Up Prom Shoppe will be held at the College of Lake County University Center, 1200 University Center Drive, Grayslake, on Saturday, April 13, and Sunday, April 14, 2024. The event is open to any high school student in Lake County. A current high school ID is required for entry.

The tagline for the Mothers Trust Pop Up Prom Shoppe is “It's more than a dress,” a sentiment that underscores its distinctive approach compared to other dress giveaways. 

The event pairs the formalwear giveaway with an informational session about higher education opportunities at College of Lake County and University Center, along with assistance filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

In advance of the event, program partner Zengeler Cleaners inspects, cleans and repairs the donations as necessary to make sure the dresses are “prom-ready.” MTF volunteers sort the dresses by size, style and color, assuring the shopping experience is as smooth and easy as possible for students. More than 300 volunteers contribute to the success of the event.

Those interested in attending or volunteering at the event or making a monetary donation should visit the Mothers Trust Foundation website at http://MothersTrustFoundation.org.

The Vernon Area Public Library has served as a donation point for prom attire since 2010. In the past 14 years, library visitors have donated more than 700 dresses.