Port resident Helena Sanders started a project she calls Blessed Dresses. Sanders is collecting gently used First Communion dresses for children who may not be able to afford a dress. She will be holding an event in April where girls can come and try on the dresses and accessories.
“After cleaning out my attic and seeing our First Communion dresses up there, I decided that it’s a waste for these dresses to be worn just once,” said Sanders. “I know people donate prom dresses and thought that I could do something similar with First Communion dresses.”
First Communion dresses, shoes and accessories can cost hundreds of dollars.
“Some people can’t afford to buy a dress for that amount of money, especially if it’s worn only once,” said Sanders. “I want to help people who don’t have the money to buy a beautiful First Communion dress.”
Sanders is a graduate of St. Peter’s School and is a junior at Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset. She has three sisters: Jane, a freshman at Mercy; Nina, an 8th grader at St. Peter’s; and Faith, a 6th grader at St. Peter’s. With three sisters, Sanders knows a thing or two about dresses.
“All of the dresses that I’ve gotten so far are so beautiful and in perfect shape,” said Sanders.
Sanders runs cross country, plays volleyball and is a member of the Spanish Honor Society and a candidate for the National Honor Society.
In April, children and their parents can come and try on the dresses and accessories and choose ones they would like to keep. Stay tuned for a date and time.
If you would like to donate a Communion dress and accessories such as veils, crowns and shoes, call 516-883-6383.
