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Our Programs

Project Dream Dress

Every high schooler deserves to feel and look their best at their prom, and Project Dream Dress is here to make that happen. We’re dedicated to ensuring that youth impacted by foster care experience a special prom night by offering beautiful dresses and dapper tuxedos.

The Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition is excited to announce our annual Project Dream Dress event! This program provides free prom dresses to high school juniors and seniors living in the St. Louis metro area (including Metro East Illinois) who are currently or were previously in foster care.

The Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition is excited to announce our annual Project Dream Dress event! This program provides free prom dresses to high school juniors or seniors living in the St. Louis metro area (including Metro East Illinois) who are currently or were previously in foster care.

During Project Dream Dress, young people impacted by foster care and students from districts across the metro area come to shop for free prom dresses and accessories. They choose a specific appointment time and are paired with a volunteer Personal Shopper who helps them pick out their perfect dress. We have seamstresses who will provide free alterations, and each student will get a makeup bag as well!

How to Donate

Donation drop-offs are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1750 S. Brentwood Blvd., Brentwood, MO 63144. Enter the lower level via the bottom parking garage, walk past the elevators, turn left, and you’ll see the donation bin.

Items needed:
• Prom dresses (all sizes, including plus sizes, 14+)
• Prom shoes (all sizes, including sizes 8-12)
• Jewelry and accessories: necklaces, earrings, and bags/clutches
• New, unused makeup (including brands such as e.l.f. Cosmetics, NYX, and Revlon)

Thank you for helping make prom magical! Questions? Please contact Jawana Reid, Family Enrichment & Volunteers Manager, at jawanareid@foster-adopt.org or (314) 806-2028.

Referral Process

Caregivers and case managers can refer juniors and seniors (11th and 12th grades) to Project Dream Dress.

Who qualifies:

  • Students currently or previously in foster care (including adoption or guardianship), or
  • Students who demonstrated financial need who cannot otherwise afford prom attire

Before submitting a referral, please read the following information:

  • This year’s event will run February 21-27, 2026 at our new office located at 1220 N. Lindbergh Blvd., Creve Coeur, MO 63132.
  • Students must be referred by their caregiver or case manager.
  • The referral deadline is Tuesday, February 7, 2026.
  • Tuxedos/suits: Students in need of tuxedos or suits for prom can contact Shelley Thomas-Benke, Director of Family Enrichment & Volunteers, at shelleythomasbenke@foster-adopt.org.

Referral Form

We’re currently accepting Project Dream Dress referrals for the 2026 prom season.

Please fill the form out with the student. Referral information will be used only for scheduling purposes, and demographic information will remain private.

Checkboxes

Your Information

Student Information

Student's pronouns
Grade

Adult Contact Information

Appointment Information

Shopping days will be from Saturday, February 21 to Friday, February 27. Please choose 3 preferred appointment times. Our Family Enrichment Manager will contact you with your assigned appointment time!

NEW LOCATION: Project Dream Dress will be held at ReFresh, located at 1220 N. Lindbergh Blvd., Creve Coeur, MO 63132. For more information, contact Jawana Reid, Family Enrichment and Volunteers Manager, at (314) 806-2028 or jawanareid@foster-adopt.org.