Donate a prom dress to “Operation Royalty” in Macomb
MACOMB — The branch office of Catholic Charities here is temporarily taking on a new look in the coming weeks: that of a fashion boutique.
Hanging from rods at the office, located at 123 S. McArthur St., are more than 60 new or gently used prom, cocktail or formal dresses of all colors, styles, and lengths. They were donated to Catholic Charities by businesses, members of Western Illinois University’s Greek community, and area individuals as part of “Operation Royalty,” which has as its mission to ensure that all high school age teens living in western Illinois have an opportunity to “dress up” and have a memorable prom.
“A lot of our own staff brought in dresses — either their own or their children’s,” said Carrie Depoy, branch office site coordinator. There are also many pairs of shoes and accessories.
So far, there’s precious little for the guys, but “we’re still hoping for tuxedos,” said Depoy, who is coordinating the project with fellow caseworker Jade Powers.
The Catholic Charities “boutique” will be open to give the clothing away from 3 to 5 p.m. on April 1, 8, 14, 15, and May 6, and from 10 a.m. to p.m. on April 9 and May 7. Meanwhile, donations continue to be welcomed at the office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (309) 833-1791 for details.