Foundation helps dreams come true

Area students select from hundreds of dresses   By TEDDY PAYNTER Staff Writer PRESTONSBURG — It is the dream of every girl to have a memorable prom.   Unfortunately, for many students in east­ern Kentucky, being able to purchase a dress for their school dance comes with a price tag that many simply can’t afford.   “We realized a time back just how difficult it is for some families to afford a prom dress for their daughter,” said Stephen Wayne, executive director of The Fairy God Founda­tion of Hazard.   The foundation is a non-profit group dedi­cated to assisting dis­advantaged students prepare for their high school proms, primar­ily by providing free dresses.   “We have between 400 and 500 dresses on display here today [April 18)],” Wayne said during an open house held at the Moun­tain Arts Center.   Parents and students started gathering at the MAC long before the doors opened at noon to get the opportunity to browse through the gowns on display.   “I just think this is a great thing for so many families,” Jessi­ca Lewis of Tram said while holding several dresses that her daugh­ter, Heather, a student at Betsy Layne High School, had selected. “She would have not had the opportunity go to the dance this year without the help we’re getting today.”   Wayne said the group was able to help just five students five years ago in Leslie County. The foundation ex­panded to serve Clay County students the following year and was able to help as many as 25 families.   “Our third year, we helped about 80 stu­dents through open houses in Leslie and Laurel counties,” Wayne said. “We start­ed helping students in Floyd County last year.”   Female students were also able to choose from shoes, jewelry, hand bags and lotions.   “I know many fami­lies like mine are not able to afford to buy these things,” Martin resident Rena Thomas said.   She was there with her daughter who at­tends Allen Central Middle School.   Wayne said the foun­dation runs on dona­tions.   “This could not be possible without the support we get from the community,” Wayne said. “The memories of attending a prom are something many of these girls would never experience if it wasn’t for the generosity of so many others.”   There’s no criteria when it comes to those in need, Wayne added.   “It’s simply a trust and honor system,” he said. “We know that those coming out and seeking help for their daughters are those who truly need assis­tance.”