We are in tough economic times right now, and parents have to make hard decisions about where they spend their money,” said Sisters Empowering Women President Karin Davis-Thompson.
TAMPA – This month, Sisters Empowering Women, Inc. (SEW) has free evening gowns for girls to wear this homecoming season. The SEW Gowns 4 Girls program provides evening gowns to girls whose families can’t afford to purchase a dress.
To qualify, a child must receive free or reduced lunch, live in a single-parent household with limited income, be in foster care or live in a home at or below the poverty level. Special circumstances are sometimes considered for those who may not meet the outlined requirements. Schools and social service agencies can also refer a student for assistance.
“We are in tough economic times right now, and parents have to make hard decisions about where they spend their money,” said SEW President Karin Davis-Thompson. “A dress for homecoming may be a luxury they just can’t afford.”
Amber Conage, SEW’s Board co-chair, said the organization has assisted hundreds of girls since the program’s inception.
“We are so honored for the opportunity to make the night as special as it should be for each girl we work with,” Conage said.
Gowns are provided to girls in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Polk Counties. Appointments are REQUIRED. Contact SEW at 813-593-3924 or e-mail sistersempoweringwomen@gmail for an appointment.
Limited assistance is also available for accessories, nails, make-up and shoes.
If you’d like to donate a gown or become a volunteer, call 813-593-3924 or e-mail sistersempoweringwomen@gmail
About Sisters Empowering Women, Inc.
SEW is a not-for-profit organization in Tampa founded by three sisters Toni, Karin, and Amber. The organization’s mission is to empower women and girls in underrepresented groups to use their voices, know their worth, and be confident that their stories and experiences have value.
Programs include Gowns for Girls, Journal the Journey (providing free journals to encourage girls to use journaling to sharpen their writing and communication skills), mentorship for girls in their junior and senior years of high school and their first year of college, and wellness programs (to encourage a focus on physical and mental health).