In Clearwater, Everyday Hero host Bill Murphy came upon a world of homecoming and prom gowns and dresses as far as the eye could see in a place called Belle of the Ball.
It was opened in 2003 after Susan Schwartz noticed something in her own daughters closets.
“I looked at all these beautiful dresses and they’d been worn one time. They were dry cleaned. They were beautiful and I remember thinking somebody could wear these dresses,” Schwartz said.
And with that thought in mind Schwartz took those dresses and a few others and set up shop at store fronts and sidewalks.
Anywhere high school girls who needed a prom dress but couldn’t afford one now could.
Getting a dress takes only an honor pledge.
“It basically states we are respecting their honor that they are saying they cannot afford to go and purchase a dress,” Schwartz said.
Those few dresses have turned into thousands and now live at Belle of the Ball.
A non-profit with no paid staff and supported by contributions, Schwartz says she makes no apologies.
“This is a beautiful store. We have some of the best, most beautiful, finely decorated dresses that you can find in any boutique or any store,” Schwartz said.
Clients also receive shoes, purses, and jewelry.
“If you have a need, do not feel embarrassed. No reflection on you. You are treated with the highest respect,” Schwartz said.
Only open for about five Saturdays during prom season and the same for homecoming season, Schwartz says her payback is so worth it.
“To see the smiles on the girls faces when they find the perfect dress and they can go to the dance feeling like a princess,” Schwartz said.