Local students help New Orleans school to hold ‘dream prom'

Sussex County - Just getting back to normal is still a major challenge for victims of the Gulf Coast hurricanes. Many are returning to their homes after being away since September. Students are still getting back to school. Will they be able to hold a high-school dance - or even a prom —this year? The answer is yes, if Sara Morrison, a junior at Sparta High School and a veteran at volunteering, has anything to say about it. Morrison is not only preparing for her own prom, but spearheading a project to help 300 students at a boys’ high school in New Orleans achieve their “dream prom.” “I just wanted to help,” she said modestly. “I think it’s a really good idea.” Morrison’s grandparents are residents at the Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, where she and her brother, Sam, often visit and do volunteer work with the senior citizens in that development. During a recent visit, Maryann Moffa, Cedar Crest’s activities director, enlisted their help in the project - to collect gowns, suits, accessories, anything to make the prom a reality. Moffa got wind of the desire for a prom at the school from the Miracles of Hope Foundation, a network that lends a hand for projects involving disadvantaged children. She has received support from many seniors at the village, although some were hesitant, believing that young people would not want what they had to contribute. “I’m overwhelmed by their generosity,” said Moffa. “They’ve donated almost 60 gowns and two tuxedos, complete with cummerbunds and cuff links.” The high-school students are joined by their friend, Christina Garafola in organizing the drive. Posters around school and around town announce their collection project. All items, including gowns, gloves, shoes, purses, jewelry, suits, ties, tuxes, are being collected. Anything that could be used by 300 girls and boys to make their prom an event they’ll not soon forget will be accepted. Financial donations are also accepted. A team of hair stylists and beauty experts are donating their time and talents and are traveling to New Orleans. Items can be dropped off at Sparta Books, Theatre Center at Woodport Road, 973-729-6200. Owner Dolores Keene said she “just had to help” after she was approached by Sara and Sam Morrison. “I think it’s a great idea, and it’s wonderful that the high school kids are participating,” said Keene. “I’m excited that the hurricane victims haven’t been forgotten and someone in our community is helping.” The prom is being held May 12, but the deadline for donations is April 14. The donated items will be trucked to New Orleans by volunteers from the Miracles group.