Business has been brisk for free formal clothing and accessories at the Prom Closet, 2910 W. Highway 50, on the west of the Fastenal building.
Angie Clopton, who oversees the store for Christian Mission Ministry, said that shoppers have been coming in to pick out dresses and accessories for Saturday’s Winter Sports Dance at Emporia High School, and she expects more as area schools hold their king and queen of courts events and proms later this spring.
The dresses, shoes and jewelry offered at the Prom Closet have been donated by area residents. The items are in good condition, because most have been worn only once.
“We are still in need of larger-sized dresses, like 14 and up,” Clopton said. “We have quite a few dresses; we just don’t have the larger sizes we need.”
Donations of shoes, purses and other accessories also would be welcome, she added.
Return of the garments is not required, Clopton said earlier, though that would help replenish the store’s supply of dresses.
The store has begun to expand its offerings into daywear.
“We’ve also started a section for workwear for women, and eventually we’ll go in for teen clothing,” Clopton said.
The store is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
The ministry also operates a drug- and alcohol-recovery program, a wellness program, a women’s group on Tuesday evenings and skating for adults and children on Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. at Roller’s.
Clopton said that computers for tutoring, sound equipment for the church’s studio, electronic games and televisions also are needed for youth programs.
Janna Hancock, minister of Christian Mission Ministry, also meets with inmates at the Lyon County Jail and holds meetings at the Emporia Rescue Mission, Clopton said.