Founder Serena Morris says since 2018, they’ve received about 500 dresses for every occasion.
SAN ANTONIO — Every ruffle, and every bead is accounted for at Givin’ Tree Inc., known for their pop-up event ‘Princess 4 a Night,’ where dozens of dresses are donated so high school students can have what they need to to feel ‘included’.
Founder Serena Morris says since 2018 they’ve received about 500 dresses for every occasion.
“I’m a teacher during the day and I don’t like hearing or seeing my students not being able to participate, feel like they can be involved or included,” Morris said. “So we do this.”
She’s received dresses for weddings, prom and quinceañeras – some donated from across the country.
Serena Morris is a charter school teacher and professor for the University of Incarnate Word, all while balancing being a single mom 24/7.
“I juggle, so I’m a teacher during the day,” she said. “I’m a professor at night. On the weekends, I run the nonprofit. It just kept growing, and growing and I thought, ‘Well ok if we’re going to keep doing this, if we’re going to need more for it, then let’s make it a nonprofit.’”
After visiting 22 high schools, students have felt the impact of the phrase: when you look good – you feel good.
“This is for any student or family that’s struggling and can’t afford a dress or has multiple kids who can’t afford a dress or suit.”
The organization is currently collecting donations for Valentine’s Day weddings and getting a head start on prom season with ‘Princess 4 a Night’.
“There’s always a need for a formal dress. And if we have it, take it.”
Morris says there’s a great need for plus-size gowns.
“[They can] feel like they’re seen,” she said. “And that they can go and have something and feel included. That’s our goal.”