Dream Dress Express returns with free formalwear for homecoming season

As homecoming season approaches, Greater Midland North Family Center is once again helping ease one of the biggest expenses many families face by offering thousands of free formal dresses through its annual Dream Dress Express event.

The giveaway will take place Aug. 27-29 at the North Family Center, 2601 E. Shearer Road. More than 3,000 dresses, ranging from gently used to brand new, including designer labels, will be available at no cost. Shoes, purses and jewelry will also be offered to help participants complete their outfits.

Unlike many assistance programs, Dream Dress Express is open to anyone in the community. There are no income or residency requirements, and dresses are available for guests of all ages attending homecoming or other formal events.

“There’s something really special about seeing someone find a dress that makes them feel like the best version of themselves, which is what this event is all about,” says Andrea Conquest, vice president, Greater Midland Coleman & North Family Centers. “We’re thankful to our community for donating so many beautiful dresses and making this event a truly valuable resource for families.”

For some families, the cost of a dress, shoes and accessories can make attending homecoming more difficult. Dream Dress Express offers those items free of charge, allowing students and other community members to find formalwear without the added expense.

The program is made possible through donations from local residents, who contribute dresses and accessories throughout the year. Those donations allow families to find formal attire without adding another expense to an already busy season while keeping thousands of dresses in use.

Appointments are required and will be offered from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Aug. 27-28, and from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 29. Approximately 80 appointments are available each day, and organizers encourage early registration as time slots fill quickly. Call the North Family Center welcome desk at 989-689-7770.

Community members can continue supporting the program by donating formal dresses and accessories. Donations are still being accepted at the North Family Center front desk ahead of the event.

About Greater Midland 

Founded in 1919, Greater Midland is a nonprofit organization that provides recreation, wellness and social service programs across the Midland area. The organization operates the Community Center, Tennis Center, Corporate Wellness, Coleman Family Center, North Midland Family Center and Curling Center. Greater Midland employs more than 500 people and serves an estimated 80 percent of Midland residents, with about 60% living elsewhere in Midland County. It offers programs designed to support health, lifelong learning and community engagement.