The NOPD is partnering with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority-Omicron Nu Zeta Chapter and Senator Troy Carter for the 4th Annual “Dresses for Dreams” Drive and Fashion Show that helps ensure local high school students have a memorable prom experience.
First District Sgt. Qiana Lewis launched “Dresses for Dreams” in 2017 after learning about a family member who could not attend prom for financial reasons. “I was saddened by it,” said Lewis. Since launching the program, Lewis has collected about 200 dresses and given them to dozens of teen girls throughout the Greater New Orleans area.
In addition to a dress, each teen will have the opportunity to participate in a fashion show to exhibit their gowns to friends and family. On that date, they will get the full glam experience by having their make-up and hair done by volunteer stylists and artists. “It’s just a day of pampering, one day I want you (them) to have stress-free,” says Lewis. However, Lewis says the girls do not have to participate in the fashion show in order to receive a dress.
The NOPD is asking community members to help make a teenager’s prom special by donating any new or gently used gowns and/or accessories that can be used for the upcoming prom season.
Drop-off locations include:
NOPD Headquarters: 715 South Broad Avenue (Mid-City)
Senator Troy Carter’s Office: 3401 General DeGaulle Drive, Suite 100 (Westbank)
St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church: 919 Cambronne Street (Uptown)
The deadline for dress donations is March 1, 2020. For more information about “Dress for Dreams” drive and fashion show, contact First District Sgt. Qiana Lewis at 504-658-6010 or email her at qtlewis@nola.gov.