THEY will go to the prom!
Students have been loaned dresses, suits, bags, jewellery and tiaras so they can go to their proms.
Once Upon a Prom is an initiative by Nicky Oates, a domestic abuse survivor who was inspired to make proms more affordable.
Nicky volunteers with domestic abuse charity Pathways and vowed to make a difference after being moved by the story of a fellow victim who was too afraid to tell her twin daughters that she could not afford their prom dresses.
Nicky, of Towngate, Silkstone, launched a huge campaign on Facebook which saw 300 dresses, 50 suits, 200 pairs of shoes, bags and tiaras donated.
An event was held on Wednesday at Outwood Academy Shafton where students could pay a small amount and pick an outfit. They will then be donated back after prom.
Nicky said: “It was such an amazing night, the atmosphere was electric. We had 25 students turn up, but only one male. Everyone went away with a suit, dress, bag, pair of shoes and a tiara if they wanted one.
“I have had a lot of messages from people all over the country about domestic abuse, saying I’m really strong and that I’ve inspired people and they’ve realised they don’t have to put up with it and can make a change. It’s been quite emotional.”
There was also a host of raffle prizes including photography packages, hair and beauty treatments and a chauffeured ride to the prom.
The money people paid to hire the outfits will be donated to Pathways. A total of £700 was raised.
