North Sound nonprofit giving away prom attire to qualifying students

LYNNWOOD, Wash. — Prom season is just around the corner, and according to Money magazine, the average teenager will spend an average of $919 on prom.

That price includes the dress or tuxedo rental, alterations, shoes, hair, makeup, dinner, the corsage and tickets to the dance.

For many students, it’s not something they can afford, but one Snohomish County nonprofit is making sure everyone has a shot at going to this tradition.

Clothes for Kids in Lynnwood is hosting a Prom Shop on Saturday.

The organization put out a call for new and gently used dresses about two weeks ago and received more than 300 dresses to give away to students who qualify.

The group primarily serves students in Snohomish County, where an estimated 40,000 students qualify for free or reduced lunch.

“Our hope is this makes it easier and they can enjoy themselves with their classmates and their peers,” said Joy Ingram, director of the program.

This is the first time in the organization’s 35-year history it’s held a prom shop.

It hosts several drives and accept donations year-round to help kids with everyday clothes, shoes and winter coats.

Since the start of the 2018-2019 school year, it estimates 3,500 students have received clothing.

They have a need especially for boys’ pants from sizes 3-T to young adult.

Any financial gifts will typically go to purchase new underwear and socks.

The event is Saturday, March 23 from 9 a.m. to noon at Clothes for Kids, 16725 52nd Avenue West, #B, Lynnwood, 98037.  For more information, visit www.clothesforkids.org.

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