Fairy godmothers weave magic wand in Bay

ON A mission to help less fortunate matric girls get the dress of their dreams for their matric dance, Empangeni resident Lynette Dunn this week launched the Gentle Hearts Foundation matric dress project.

The initiative aims to provide underprivileged girls with dresses, makeup, hairstyles, nails and shoes for their special night.

Knowing first hand the experience of ‘almost’ not making it to her matric dance, Dunn believes that no girl should forfeit her special night just because they cannot afford the fancy wear.

She too could not afford to purchase a new outfit, but at the eleventh hour her family and friends rallied behind her and transformed her into a princess for the night.

With the help of her friend Shenelle van Niekerk, a social media post went viral last week and sparked an outpouring of generosity from women across the city.

‘Within hours of the post, we were inundated with pledges of new and used designer gowns and dresses.

‘Some women also made their closets available for the girls to browse through and borrow the dress they like, while others sponsored to do nails, hair and makeup.

‘It was overwhelming to see women unite and show solidarity for this project.

‘As former Richards Bay Secondary School matrics, we feel honoured to return and support and encourage these young women.

‘This project is highly confidential and the identities of the beneficiaries will not be revealed.

‘We understand that families are going through tough times with the recession and increased unemployment, and are finding it difficult to meet their basic needs.

‘We do not want struggling parents to go further into debt or feel burdened by having to buy new outfits when we have a room filled with gowns and are eager to help.’

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