Photo: WBZ NewsRadio \ Kim Tunnicliffe
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — More than a dozen high school seniors from the Boston International Newcomers Academy got a free day of prom pampering on Wednesday thanks to one local non-profit.
Giving the Glam, a Norwood nonprofit, helped some financially disadvantaged teens end their high school careers on a high note by helping them with the costly expenses of going to prom.
Giving the Glam works to give students the chance to go to prom who may not be able to go otherwise by providing free prom outfits, makeovers, photos, and transportation.
"I didn't grow up with much, it feels so good when you have something just [for] you," Maristela Rapo, Founder/President at Giving the Glam, told WBZ's Kim Tunnicliffe.
Rapo, the former owner of two high-end fashion boutiques in Copley Place, founded Giving the Glam in 2014. She said she wants everyone to have the opportunity to go to prom feeling their best, regardless of economic status.
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High school seniors got their hair, nails, and makeup done along with brand-new tuxes and gowns. Once the seniors were made up, they got a free photo shoot and a limousine ride to their prom with a police escort.
"I'm so happy and grateful that all these people are so kind," a senior named Hailey said. "They really take care of you."
Rapo said Giving the Glam is more than just free clothes and accessories, but is about giving young people from "underserved communities a new sense of confidence that grows their self-esteem."
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