Saying “Yes” to Young Women’s Dresses & Dreams
Maria’s Closet, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting confidence and a positive self-image for young women within San Pedro and across Southern California.
“Maria’s Closets Big Give 2022 was attended by 120 amazing community volunteers and 176 prom gown recipients from local high schools, foster youth, and mentoring programs throughout Los Angeles County. It was a day filled with empowerment and beauty for these spectacular Maria’s Closet girls. Maria’s Closet’s mission is to provide these young women with a fabulous prom experience, a night that they will remember for years to come, ” says Ronna Lunna.
Founded in 2016 by Ronna Luna, the program was established to recognize young women who strive to do well in school but do not have the financial means to attend prom. The mission statement, “empower young women, one gown at a time,” reflects the goal of providing prom dresses, accessories, makeup and hair consultation, etiquette tips and friendship for girls in need.
Over 750 girls in Southern California, mainly aged 17 to 19 living in the South Bay and Harbor City areas, have benefited from this nonprofit in the last six years. Maria’s Closet hosted its 3rd annual Big Give event on April 3 at the Boys and Girls Club of the Los Angeles Harbor, where 175 girls and their families were able to attend a makeshift prom with stylists, dresses, photos and gift bags. Additionally, Maria’s Closet has given nearly $10,000 in scholarships in the past and expects to award $12,000 in 2022.
“I am grateful that Maria’s Closet reached out to me to volunteer my styling expertise for these special young ladies. My heart is always so full at the end of the day! It is truly an Unforgettable experience! I love that the girls I have worked with continue to stay in touch with me. I feel beyond blessed and the most alive when I’m in service to others.”
—Gale Theofora Drake
To help empower girls one dress or scholarship at a time, Maria’s Closet welcomes monetary donations as well as volunteers. For more information, visit www.mariasclosets.org for more information.
