Dress project a worthy effort

Published 8:09 pm Saturday, February 25, 2017

Those of us without teenage daughters have probably overlooked a need in this community. Prom dresses aren’t cheap, but what girl doesn’t dream of that perfect dress?

Thankfully, someone has recognized that not everyone can afford the picture-perfect attire most girls want.

Laura Ann Walker, a teacher at Alexander, not only saw the need, she also decided to do something about it.

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Walker began collecting dresses from girls that had already attended a prom. Most prom dresses are worn once and then spend a lifetime in the back of the closet.

Thanks to Walker and her donors, those dresses see a second life.

Walker currently has about 140 dresses in assorted colors, lengths, sizes and styles for any local student to choose from. She’s also catalogued the dresses to make the inventory easier to search.

She would like the project to expand beyond dresses to include everything from band instruments to sporting equipment.

Walker is looking to move into a larger space, but needs volunteers to make it happen.

If you are willing to help out, or have a dress to donate, contact Walker at Alexander at 601-833-7549.

Girls who need a dress can talk with the counselor at their school or to a pastor at their church. They will know how to get in touch with Walker.