The Cleveland Salvation Army hosted “One Night with the King,” a prom for teen mothers.
The Cleveland Salvation Army hosted “One Night with the King,” a prom for teen mothers. The event gave these young ladies the opportunity to experience the high school prom they had missed.
“It was a great evening for these girls, and they loved every minute of it,” said Gina Ballinger, one of the prom’s coordinators.
The girls were treated like royalty when they arrived at the Peerless Church of God of Prophecy where the event was held. After having their hair and make-up prepared, professional pictures were taken of each as a keepsake of the special night. The gowns, which were generously donated from people in the community, made the teenage mothers look and feel beautiful, officials said.
Before the dance portion of the evening, the more than 50 prom attendees were served a dinner provided by Olive Garden.
“This prom would not have been possible without the support and help from people in our community,” said Sgt. Ruthie Forgey, the Cleveland Salvation Army Corps administrator. “Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible including Pat Fuller and The Orange Blossom for providing jewelry, the staff at Peerless Church, photographer Tammy Rockwell, Lee University students for serving and especially to Roxanne Corbett, who was an encouragement and blessing from the very beginning.”
The Salvation Army’s Cleveland Corps has plans to make this an annual event for the community. To take part in this event or make a donation of money, time or resources, contact Melissa Snyder, director of Community Relations at 308-3467 or 310-6156.