With prom season around the corner, PMHS junior Sophia Riviello has a mission of ensuring that the cost of prom attire will not prevent students from attending the grand soiree.

As Riviello’s excitement for her own prom next year started to grow, she began to reflect on other students’ circumstances. “It really got me thinking about how prom shopping affects people who financially struggle because it can be so expensive getting accessories, shoes, dresses, tuxedos, and more,” she said in an interview.

Riviello wants to break down some of the financial barriers that discourage some students from attending their proms.  To do that, she has partnered with the nonprofit Operation Prom’s Westchester chapter. 

Operation Prom is a national organization that provides free prom wear to low-income students. “They have events where kids who are looking for prom supplies can come and shop for them at Operation Prom for free,” she said. Riviello is inspired to bring this movement to Pelham. 

She encourages the Pelham community to donate gently used formal wear and accessories. Donations can be dropped off in a bag at her house at 946 Pelhamdale Avenue up until April 1. 

Operation Prom welcomes volunteers who want to help by sorting donations or setting up for the charity’s giveaway event on April 30. Operation Prom’s Westchester office is located at 198 Central Avenue in White Plains.