YWCA Oahu’s Bella Project Hosts Free Formalwear Event for Local Youth

January 12, 2026, Honolulu, HI — YWCA Oʻahu and The Bella Project will host a two-day free formalwear event to help local youth prepare for upcoming milestone events such as prom and school formals. The boutique-style experience will take place on Friday, January 30, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. and Saturday, January 31, from 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

The Bella Project provides formal dresses at no cost to youth who may otherwise face financial, medical, or accessibility barriers to participating in milestone events. Participants receive one-on-one styling support in a welcoming and dignified environment.

Founded in 2009, The Bella Project has distributed more than 4,500 dresses between 2009 and 2025, ensuring thousands of students have the opportunity to fully participate in important school traditions. In 2023, YWCA Oʻahu acquired The Bella Project due to its strong alignment with the organization’s mission to empower women and girls at all stages of life.

“The Bella Project was created to remove financial and personal barriers that prevent high school students from participating in milestone events like prom,” said Colleen McAluney, Chief Program Officer of YWCA Oʻahu. “The program centers on access, dignity, and inclusion by providing formal attire through a supportive and unique boutique experience.”

Youth interested in participating can register for a styling appointment online, and community members are encouraged to support The Bella Project by donating formal attire or making a financial contribution. Additional information is available at ywcaoahu.org/thebellaproject.