Spring is a special time of year when our community celebrates the achievements of young men and women as we donate new and gently worn dresses, suits, ties, shoes and more to those who may not be able to afford such items for graduation or prom. Through this program youth celebrate this important academic milestone and build self-confidence. 

Registered participants must be in Grade 8 or High School in Elgin County.

Participants will receive:

• A 45-minute one-on-one fashion consultation with our YWCA team
• The opportunity to select a dress or suit from dozens of colours and styles
• The knowledge that our community values their achievements….and it’s all for free!

In 2024 over 50 students participated in our GGFG program and it was only possible through the generous donations from our community, Harvest Hands, ClothingWorks and Goodwill Ontario Great Lakes. We hope you are able to participate again this year. 

How to participate

Registration now open (by phone 519-631-9800 and online).

Students in grade 8 may have their parent or guardian register them on their behalf. Students in high school may register themselves online or by phone.

Boutique Days – April 28 to May 3

Registration is required to book your 45-minute appointment with our amazing team of case managers and volunteers.  Please note, one-on-one appointments will be available Monday through Friday. On Saturday there will be 3 appointments available during each timeslot (not one-on-one). Change rooms will be available however you may wish to wear shorts and a tank-top to quickly try on outfits.

Monday, April 28 > 1 – 7 pm – now full
Tuesday, April 29 > 1 – 6 pm – now full
Wednesday, April 30 > 1 – 7 pm – now full
Thursday, May 1 > 1 – 7 pm – now full
Friday, May 2 > 1 – 6 pm – now full
Saturday, May 3 > 10 am – 5 pm 

Donations accepted annually in Feb & March

This program would not be possible without the generosity of our community! If you are an individual or a business who wishes to donate formal wear (for girls and boys), shoes, jewelry or gift cards to a salon or barber please bring your donations to our main office located at 16 Mary Street West, St.Thomas during regular business hours. (Monday – Friday 9am – 12pm / 1pm – 4:30pm)

Items must be in good condition and clean or they will not be accepted. (within the last 5 years to keep style modern for the students)

A charitable donation receipt may be provided to you or your business for your donation based on the following standards:

Donations from individuals:

• new or gently used items: a charitable donation receipt can be granted for up to $50 per item, to a maximum of $150.
• gift-certificates will be receipted at their face value.
• We will require your full name, email, phone and mailing address to issue your receipt.

Donations from businesses:

• your charitable donation receipt will be based on the final retail price of items, including markdowns (please provide an itemized list to facilitate this process)
• As per CRA receipting guidelines, Gift Certificates/Gift Cards donated by the issuer that are then being transferred to a third party are not eligible for receipting (A letter of acknowledgement, citing the value of the Gift Certificates/Cards will be issued)
• We will require your complete business name and mailing address to issue your receipt.