Prom-goers select their formal wear at Suffolk police giveaway event

Future prom-goers sorted through racks of fancy gowns and tuxedos at a formal-wear giveaway hosted by the Suffolk County Association of Women Police, and, at least for the afternoon, got to leave any financial stresses behind.

More than 1,000 colorful dresses, dozens of sparkly high heel shoes, hundreds of sleek tuxedos and other gear, was up for grabs Saturday afternoon at a Prom Impact event in Brentwood’s Suffolk County Police Academy at Suffolk County Community College.

Karen Juca, 18, a senior at Bay Shore High School, attended with her three younger sisters and their mom, Nely Galarza, who is originally from Ecuador. Although there's no prom in Galarza’s homeland, she realizes the American milestone can be a costly endeavor.

“Before this, I was even thinking of thrifting my dress because it can be a lot of money,” Juca said, adding she didn’t discuss it with her parents.

Juca also appreciated the work of more than 50 volunteers, including Suffolk County police officers, who helped turn prom dreams into a reality for many. 

“I think it’s a really great opportunity, especially for those who are less fortunate,” Juca said. “There are people willing to help you, so you feel welcome and you feel supported. I’m having a really great time.”

Suffolk police officers Eileen Emiddio and Dana Deshler organized the fifth annual event, the largest one since it was first launched in 2018.

 “Some of these students might not be able to afford the ginormous expense that goes into the prom so we’re happy to see their faces when they’re able to find something and gives them the opportunity they may not have had otherwise,” Emiddio said.

Deshler added: “It’s an amazing feel-good event for everyone involved. It gives the kids a sense of pride and community.”

Janet Schwartz, 69, was there with her 17-year-old granddaughter, Yvette Miller, a student attending her junior prom at Comsewogue High School. Schwartz is semiretired and she said was concerned about what how much prom expenses would set her back.

“I only work part time and I don’t really think I would have money for all of this … She got a dress, shoes, earrings, a necklace,” said Schwartz, who lives with Miller. “When she’s done with this, she might just re-donate it.” Miller also suggested reusing it for her senior prom.

Debra Ehrlich, 52 said the event comes at time when many people had been financially impacted by the pandemic. “It’s such a good event. This helps a lot of people with the expenses,” said Ehrlich.

Her son, Alex Ehrlich, 18, a senior at Brentwood High School, was happy to find a suit for the big day. “I’m having fun,” Alex said. “It’s awesome.”

Emiddio said donations poured in from every corner, including a $3,000 donation from NYPD With Arms Wide Open, a group that helps families with special needs children; nearly $3,000 worth of gift cards from 1-800Flowers.com; and a truckful of goods from Glam4Good, a Westchester-based nonprofit.

Doors will be open Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.