Tiffany Lee’s prom dreams became a reality.
Even with the bustling atmosphere of 1,000 students in New York City chatting and searching for their perfect outfits, 17-year-old Tiffany was determined to find her dress. She skillfully navigated through the crowd at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Sunday, quickly securing a stunning black sequin feathered corset dress before anyone else had a chance.
And the best part? She didn’t have to pay a dime for it. Like many others that day, Tiffany received her dress for free.
The Brooklyn Prom Project, a nonprofit organization, aims to ensure prom night is special for underprivileged students by giving away free dresses, tuxedos, shoes, and accessories.
“I walked in and saw this feathered dress and just knew it was the one,” Tiffany shared, beaming. Cheers erupted as she came out of the dressing room, her appearance reminiscent of a movie star.
“Since it’s my senior year, I want to make the most of prom,” she added, her joy palpable. “I just know I’m going to look great at graduation.”
This annual event, supported by community donations and various sponsors, is part of the broader Operation Prom National Network and has provided for underprivileged students for 14 years. This year, though, was unique as it marked the first time the giveaway was held at Barclays Center, making it the largest in Brooklyn’s history.
Throughout the day, Dawn Simon, the project director, along with over 350 volunteers, assisted students in their selections, offering them not just clothing but shoes, wallets, scarves, jewelry, tiaras, gloves, and cosmetics.
It’s all about making the students feel celebrated as they prepare for prom. “When students find their outfit, we cheer like crazy, ringing bells and everything from the dressing room to the red carpet,” Dr. Shaniqua Schloss, one of the organizers, explained.
For many students, such as 17-year-old Miriam Soh, this experience was a significant relief. “Prom dresses can be pricey, especially for families with lower incomes,” she commented while waiting to hit the red carpet. “It’s just… really expensive.”
Another attendee, 19-year-old Samantha Rios, echoed that sentiment, appreciating the generosity of the event. She was excited to try on a dress in her favorite colors: pink and white. “All my clothes are these colors. They really express who I am,” she shared, grabbing a pair of white lace gloves before heading to the fitting area.
Volunteer Christine Delius noted some interesting fashion trends among the students, saying, “Kids are bringing a lot of gloves. I didn’t expect that in 2026, but here we are. My mom will be thrilled; I didn’t wear gloves to my prom.”
Delius found the experience of supporting students rewarding. “It’s heartwarming to see them walk away with what they need. Plus, it eases the financial strain on parents. Prom is such an important milestone, and everyone should have a magical night.”
Students were encouraged to explore various options, taking their time to find outfits they felt good in. It took Jaden Paris, 17, some time to find the perfect tuxedo that fit just right, with a volunteer helping him navigate his choices.
When Jaden FaceTimed his mom to show off his tuxedo, she couldn’t hold back her tears. “Don’t cry, Mom,” he reassured her, “I’m really excited about prom!”
New York Liberty player Bethniya Rainey Hamilton also made an appearance, sharing her sentiments about the significance of prom. “It meant a lot to me back in high school, so it’s great that kids here can get free dresses and feel confident.”
The excitement was evident all day. Stephon Cruz, 17, got measured for his tuxedo while Madison Evans, 18, found a dazzling red silk dress that she knew was the right choice.
“I was imagining a Sahara desert vibe,” Madison said, looking for an accessory to complete her look.
Identical twins Kayla and Kayla Studimeyer celebrated after selecting their dresses. Their mother, Jenny Manley, allowed them to pick their own outfits, stating, “I’d have made them coordinate otherwise.”
After learning about the event through their school, A. Philip Randolph Campus High School, they decided to participate. “It turned out to be the best choice,” Jenny remarked.
While one twin went for a pink sequin dress, the other chose an orange tulle creation. “I didn’t think anyone would like this color, but it’s really beautiful,” the twin exclaimed.
Jenny concluded, “I’m just so happy. My daughters are going to college, and today was beautiful. Everything was just amazing.”
