Once Upon A Gown was founded in March 2024 by Hampton University Journalism student, Miracle Gross.

She began the initiative with the goal to collect and donate prom dresses, free of charge, to ensure that prom is a night of unparalleled enchantment

Here’s her story:

Last year, just before one of the most significant seasons of my life, my grandmother, a pillar of strength and love in our family, passed away unexpectedly. In the midst of our grief, my family and I found ourselves journeying to her hometown for hospital visits, bringing her to our city for hospice care, and eventually planning the funeral.

Instead of the excitement I anticipated, it became a time of agony and stress. As we navigated the logistics of saying our final goodbyes, I couldn't shake the heavy realization that my grandmother wouldn't be there to witness the milestones I had longed for her to see. She wouldn't witness me in my cap and gown to accept my diploma, nor would she be there to share in the excitement and nerves of my prom night. To make things even more sorrowful, I had to witness my parents go through an immense heartbreak. My grandmother was one of the most selfless, kind, and giving souls to ever grace this earth; and her loss was felt by everyone.

Amidst the grief tasks of organizing the funeral and ensuring my grandmother's final wishes were honored, I grappled with the bittersweet reality that these moments, so cherished and anticipated, would be experienced without her comforting presence. Yet, even in the midst of this heartache, life demanded that I press on.

And so, with a heavy heart, I returned home with a mere 36 hours to spare before prom night. In those fleeting moments, I became not only the architect of my own preparations but also the keeper of my grandmother's legacy—a legacy of resilience, love, and the unwavering belief that even in the face of loss, life's milestones are worth celebrating.

In those 36 hours, I had to “DIY” most of my prom preparations. I did my own hair, did my own nails, and most notably, had to tailor my own dress—customizing the train and cinching the waist. I couldn't help but wish for a perfectly fitting prom dress to arrive at my doorstep.

All in all, my prom was a beautiful night. And I truly believe that my grandmother’s spirit was with me, guided me through the dance of grief and celebration.

In the wake of such profound loss, I found solace in the act of celebrating life's milestones, however bittersweet they may be. And it is with this same spirit of resilience and compassion that I now embark on a mission to ensure that every young woman, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to embrace and cherish these moments of joy and celebration.

Let’s make prom night a memorable and accessible experience for young women across the country