For two decades, the Precious Moments Boutique within the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board has helped students shine in their special moments. Located at the St. Mary Catholic Education Resource Centre, this boutique provides students with gently used formal wear at no cost. The boutique has just wrapped up the spring open houses and heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who contributed, making the program a cherished success for our students. A special thanks this year to St. Catherine of Sienna Parish, the Hamilton Police, and the community for their many donations and unwavering support of this program. The success of Precious Moments is not possible without the army of volunteers that really make the program what it is…a kind, caring and comfortable place for children, youth and families to come and find that special outfit for their big day. Thank you to Nicole Baldini, Gale Bankowski, Mary Louise Ceroni, Bridget D’Alesio, Kathy Davidson, Don Henderson, Gail Henderson, Luisa Pietrantonio, Janice Robinson, Rosanne Sogan and Angelica Tarli. It really does take a “village”.
The initiative, started by Social Worker Kelly Duffy-Kariam, addressed the need for affordable prom and Holy Communion outfits for students in our Equal Opportunity schools. Financial strains often prevent families from purchasing new attire, leaving students out of important events. To combat this, Duffy-Kariam organized an annual collection and opened the boutique. The need has only grown in the past few years, but our community has responded with beautiful donations for our kids.
The boutique has clothed hundreds of kids, inspiring other boards to adopt similar services. "We aim to create a positive experience for everyone," said Duffy-Kariam.
Donate to the Precious Moments Boutique
Donations are accepted year-round at the Father Kennedy Catholic Education Centre (90 Mulberry St, Hamilton), from 8 am - 4 pm, Monday to Friday. The boutique especially needs boys' First Holy Communion apparel. All garments must be current, cleaned and clothing must be presented on hangers.
Accepted items:
• Prom/grad dresses
• Suits (separate pieces welcome)
• Dress shoes/heels
• First Communion outfits/shoes
• Ties/pocket squares
• Costume jewelry
• Clutches/purses
For information contact Kelly Duffy-Kariam ([email protected])
