Matric dance outfits donated for their big night
RANDPARK – The Matric Dress Charity Express ensures that disadvantaged matrics have a fabulous evening.
Glynis Rozendo of the charity The Matric Dress Charity Express has given her heart and soul to ensure that disadvantaged matrics have a fabulous evening at their matric dance.
Rozendo collects used matric dance dresses and suits and the outfits are loaned out temporarily.
All she requires in return is a small pay-it-forward such as canned food, a toiletry item or a children’s toy. If they cannot afford a small donation, they will not be turned away.
“This is a very busy time of year for me… Exams are well on their way and there are many schools that are having their matric dances only now so that it does not interfere with study time,” she said.
“We usually have up to seven fittings a day, and it’s sometimes hard to fit in this charity work with other commitments.”
When asked why she was motivated to do this, Rozendo commented, “There are so many students from disadvantaged communities who cannot afford to dress up for the occasion, so they miss it all together,
“This is very upsetting for them, as they have worked hard their entire school career, but end up missing the one night where they can truly shine,”
The initiative is tied closely to the group Charity Begins With Me, which donates food, clothing and other goods to disadvantaged and disaster-stricken communities.
The clothes are not only for matric dance time, she also helps disadvantaged people with business attire for important job interviews.
“It can be highly stressful for a person to go on their first interview. I make sure that they look the part… Some generous people have even donated their Armani, Gucci and Hugo Boss suits.”
The clothes are donated from all over South Africa with some even being delivered from the Western Cape.
She is always open to new clothing donations, and if you would like to find out how you can help or know of anyone who needs their service, you can follow The Matric Dress Charity Express on Facebook.
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