By Michael Bennett
Local Journalism Initiative
The Ridgetown Independent
For elementary and secondary school students who need formal wear for their graduation ceremony, prom, or semi-formal event but are concerned about the expense, Free Help CK is your answer.
The volunteer organization is holding its sixth annual Prom Night and Grad Day giveaway, where students can choose formal clothing – dresses or suits – shoes, jewelry and accessories at no cost.
The prom night and graduation day service is available to all students in Chatham-Kent who are in Grade 8 or Grade 12 and are graduating this spring or attending their school prom or semi-formal.
No eligibility requirements exist for students to get a dress, suit or accessories.
Students can choose their attire at the Free Help CK’s store in the Downtown Chatham Centre April 4, from 3 p.m.-5 p.m.; appointments are necessary and can be booked online at freehelpck.ca.
The store is located in the former LaSenza shop on the lower floor
If your daughter or son cannot attend the store, they can make arrangements by emailing [email protected] to set up an appointment.
“We won’t turn anyone away,” said Geri Ann Hughson, founder of FreeHelpCK.
FreeHelpCK is again hosting Cinderella Day on May 31 at the Retro Suites. On this day, girls can get their hair and makeup applied by professionals and have graduation photographs taken by Michael Cartier.
The cost is $25, and appointments must be booked and payment made in advance. Appointments can be booked while the students are picking out their dresses or by email to [email protected].
What started as 43 students getting free grad and prom attire from the Cinderella Princess Project six years ago evolved into close to 400 students receiving free formal wear, shoes, jewellery, and other accessories in 2024.
Free Help CK is a volunteer organization that provides many services in Chatham-Kent at no charge to the recipients.
The organization provides free meals to shut-in seniors and residents at the Victoria Place homeless shelter twice a week, operates free food pantries in 14 locations, and runs a community garden and the Operation Back Pack program for students at the start of a new school year.
The organization relies on donations and volunteers to offer its programs.
For further information on the Prom and Grad Giveaway or any of their programs and volunteer opportunities, visit www.freehelpck.ca
