In 2023 nearly 400 teens visited the two-day Project Prom event where 227 dresses and 30 suits were given away for free.
Photo providedAn event at the Franklin library Saturday will offer free homecoming formal wear for any teen in need.
The Project Prom Homecoming Pop-Up Shop will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Teens can choose from a variety of homecoming-style dresses, formal wear, shoes and accessories for free. This event will be held in the building behind the Johnson County Public Library Franklin Branch, 401 State St.
Teens don’t need to live in Johnson County or have a library card to pick out homecoming formal wear. Each teen can choose one free dress or suit to make sure they are dressed to impress for their homecoming dance.
With the exception of pandemic years, JCPL has been offering the Homecoming Pop-Up Shop since 2017. Last year JCPL served 46 teens and gave away 31 dresses, 6 pairs of shoes, 23 accessory items and 7 menswear items.
“During our spring Project Prom events, the fancier prom dresses dominate. The shorter and more casual dresses tend to hang around,” said Kelly Staten, JCPL’s programming manager. “We decided to try a pop-up program for homecoming dances, and they were a hit! We put out the short dresses for the pop-up event and held the full formal gowns back for the spring prom event.”
