Media Advisory/Photo Opportunity: The Corsage Project makes prom accessible for hundreds of deserving young women

TORONTO, April 17, 2013 /CNW/ - When it comes to prom, it's all about the outfit. From the dress, to the shoes, to the accessories, the average cost of attending prom is more than $500. For many young women in Toronto who juggle school, part time jobs and other commitments, this cost is simply too high, leaving hundreds of girls unable to attend their prom each year.

The Corsage Project helps these young women break through barriers by providing free formal attire and accessories to ensure they have the opportunity to celebrate with their peers. On Sunday, April 21, the Corsage Project will hold its annual "Boutique Ball", where hundreds of students, identified through confidential referrals, will be outfitted for prom free of charge. During this special day, participants are escorted by their very own volunteer personal shopper through racks of clothing, hundreds of shoes, tables upon tables of sparkling jewelry, and even receive a mini-makeover by local make-up artists. They also leave with a generous goody bag provided by sponsors. It's an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance.

Who:

• Select Corsage Project participants who have agreed to share their story with media
• Sarah Tuite, Corsage Project spokesperson
• Corsage Project volunteers, including personal shoppers, make-up artists and seamstresses

Where:

• Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street
• Bram & Bluma Appel Salon (second floor)

When:

• Sunday, April 21
• 10 a.m.

What:

• Formal dresses, accessories and jewelry that have been donated by retailers and the local fashion community
• Interviews with select Corsage Girls
• Interviews with CAF staff: Linton Carter (Chief Development Officer) and Stacey Helpert (Events Manager)
• Interviews with Corsage Project spokespeople and volunteers
• Note: To respect the privacy of many of our participants, please photograph, film and interview only those girls who have agreed to speak with the media. Volunteers will be on hand to ensure these young women are easily identifiable and available for interviews. 

About The Corsage Project
The Corsage Project is a community-based organization run by a committee of volunteers from Toronto. Created in 2000, The Corsage Project is a program of the Children's Aid Foundation, with the goal of helping young women attend their prom by providing them with a new dress, accessories and a mini-makeover - free of charge. www.corsageproject.ca

SOURCE: Children's Aid Foundation

Beth Hampson
[email protected]
647-539-2116

Amanda Lazarovitz
[email protected]
416-723-3848