It began five years ago, and it has become a local tradition. Journey Fellowship Church of Galena is once again giving high school girls the opportunity to select a free prom dress, as well as shoes and jewelry, for that big night at the end of the school year – the prom.

Journey Fellowship member Anita Robinson said the church has received more than 700 prom-appropriate dresses this year, all cleaned by Sunbury Cleaners, waiting for new owners at this year’s “Pretty For Prom” on Friday, March 4, and Saturday, March 5.

“This is not just for Big Walnut girls,” Robinson said. “We are here for any girl willing to drive any distance and has a high school ID. And even if they didn’t bring an ID with them, we don’t hold their feet to the fire; we can pretty much tell. We’ve had girls come from as far away as Strongsville and Watkins Memorial. Each year, more and more girls come to Pretty For Prom to get their dress for that special evening.”

Robinson said a professional makeup artist would be available; there will be free jewelry and a jewelry consultation, shoes of all sizes, and a seamstress to do minor alterations.

“We also provide refreshments for parents while they wait,” Robinson said. “There will be Big Walnut boys dressed in black, serving as hosts welcoming everyone, and the dress models are all Big Walnut girls.”

Robinson said that last year the owner of Huntington Bridle retired and donated her inventory to Journey Fellowship that included many dresses appropriate for prom.

“We have a room at the church designated to keep the dresses in, and Sunbury Cleaners couldn’t be better about cleaning them,” Robinson said.

“Pretty For Prom is not just for poor and needy folks,” Robinson added. “You do not have to be in financial distress to come in and get fitted for a prom dress. We’re here to help the girls who only wear this dress one time.”

Robinson said Pretty For Prom is open to all high school girls.

“Anyone wishing to donate dresses, shoes or jewelry may drop items off at Sunbury Cleaners located at 23 W. Granville St. in Sunbury,” Robinson said.

For other donation options, contact Robinson at 614-209-0985.

Journey Fellowship Church is at 70 N. Walnut St. in Galena in the old Galena School building at the point.

Pretty For Prom will be from 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, March 4; and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, March 5.