CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The fifth annual CU Prom Giveaway is returning to Champaign-Urbana, providing free formalwear and accessories to students and community members in need ahead of prom and other special events. The event will happen at 41 E. University Avenue, in downtown Champaign.
Over the past four years, the volunteer-led effort has distributed roughly 1,000 dresses annually, along with hundreds of suits, thousands of pieces of jewelry, and a wide range of shoes, handbags and other accessories—all at no cost.
Organizers say the event was created to help ease the financial pressures that often come with milestone events like prom, ensuring more students have the opportunity to participate and feel confident.
- Dresses
- Shoes
- Purses/bags/clutches
- Jewelry/tiaras
- Pant suits/jumpers
- Makeup/nail products/beauty products/scents
- Men’s suits/jackets/shirts/ties/shoes
- Snacks/drinks
- Garment bags
The giveaway is powered entirely by volunteers and community donations, with items ranging from vintage dresses to modern formalwear and everyday accessories suitable for graduations, weddings and other occasions.
Organizers are currently seeking donations dropped off at locations including the following:
- Farren’s at the Inman
- Fire Doll Studio
- Catch My Thrift
- Beads N Botanicals
- Keller Williams Realty (at the Crossing)
Shopping dates for the giveaway will be announced soon, with the event expected to run over several weeks. Any remaining items at the end of the event will be distributed to local organizations to ensure nothing goes to waste.
Volunteers say the mission remains simple as the event enters its fifth year: connect unused items with people who can use them and make special moments more accessible for everyone.