Catholic Community Services (CCS) of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has partnered with George Washington High School and the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority to collect gently used formal wear for teens in foster care attending prom this spring. The collection will culminate in the Second Annual Prom Gear Exchange slated for April 21, 2018.

CCS is the Community Umbrella Agency (CUA) designated by the Department of Human Services to serve children and families in the Greater Northeast section of Philadelphia.

Ginger Smith, Community Liaison for CCS said, “Prom is an exciting time though it is a very costly expense for youth, especially those in foster care or with limited resources. The Prom Gear Exchange is unique in that we will provide a personalized shopping experience for each teen. They will be paired with a staff member or volunteer who will help them to find their dream outfit. In addition, there will be make-up demonstrations, giveaways, a teen focused resource table, music, and more!”

The partnership with CCS is one of many community partnerships facilitated by the Mayor’s Office of Education, which supports George Washington High School as a Community School.

To learn more about the Prom Gear Exchange or to arrange a drop off, please contact Ginger Smith at (215)221-2010 or gismith@chs-adphila.org.