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Published on March 10, 2024
East Valley Women's League Makes Prom Dreams Reality with Free Dresses in Chandler EventSource: Facebook/The_Cinderella_Affair

It's that time of year again in Chandler, Arizona, where prom dreams come without the heavy price tag. The East Valley Women's League, through their Cinderella Affair project, is ensuring prom night is a fairytale come true for countless high school juniors and seniors by providing an array of free prom dresses. ABC15 reports that this year, the organization's dedicated space near Kyrene Road and Chandler Boulevard has transformed into a magical boutique brimming with over 6,000 dress options for the taking.

This commendable endeavor has been an annual tradition since 2002, and according to 12news, has supported over 16,000 girls to date. From a dazzling selection of accessories to the crucial support provided by the community, the affair is more than just about a dress. It's an experience – an opportunity for teens in the Valley to shine without the shadow of expenses looming over them.

According to statements by teens who have benefited from the initiative, the Cinderella Affair is leaving a lasting impression on its beneficiaries. "It's just a great opportunity, because when I looked at prom dresses, they were all really expensive, and I was like, I was a little concerned," Katelyn Cesarano told 12news. Isabella White added, "I think one of the dresses I was looking at was like $500, it was really expensive, and I was like, I could use that money for something else, so this is a good option."

For families feeling the pinch of prom season finances, the event has offered a breath of relief. The Cinderella Affair invites teens to not only select an appropriate gown, but also to accessorize with complimentary shoes, purses, and jewelry. "I got a little bracelet and some earrings," expressed Ella Heldenbrand in an interview with 12news. The excitement shared among the attendees is palpable, with dreams materializing in the form of tulle and satin, a sentiment echoed across the Valley.

Those interested in participating in this dreamlike shopping spree need merely a valid student ID. The next boutique events are scheduled for April 6 and 7, promising another round of Cinderella stories, as confirmed on the organization's website. For now, the league isn't accepting more dresses, citing an "overwhelming" number of donations. Still, monetary contributions are welcome to sustain this community gem that has turned prom from a potential financial nightmare into a day to remember for all the right reasons. For further details, or to make a donation, you can visit the East Valley Women's League's Cinderella Affair page.