Senior living home putting on prom for residents, needing donations

(ABC 6 News) – Our House Senior Living in Austin is planning a prom for its residents, but they are needing donations to put on the dance.

"It’s really important to enrich their lives they don’t get to get out right now covid is a barrier and it is just a fun thing to see them take back to their high school days," Our House Life Enrichment Coordinator, Samantha Ricke said.

The prom is complete with a ‘Black and Gold’ theme and for some residents, this is their first prom.

"I didn’t go to prom a few of my friends and I went to a lake in Fairbault a cabin. And we spent the whole weekend there, we had a good time, but it wasn’t prom," Our House Resident, Judy said.

This is the second year Our House is putting on a prom. Ora Payne attended last year and said it brought back memories from her teenage years.

"Yes in the 60’s line dances and all kinds of stuff," Our House Resident, Ora Payne said. She added, "Some of them didn’t know how to dance so I had to be the lead you know."

No prom would be complete without a prom king and queen, keeping with tradition, residents voted their top picks earlier this month.

"Being able to be with the other people and laughing and joking about their other experiences also," Judy said.

"Happy prom day to all you high schoolers out there," Payne said.

Donations of dresses, suits and any other prom attire are needed. They are also looking for corsages and boutonnieres.

If you have any items to donate you can bring them to any of the three locations in Austin.

Donations will be accepted until March 25th.

Matchbox Children’s Theatre has helped with some costumes, Just Take the Cake is providing cookies, and a local photographer will capture the event.

The Our House Prom is set for March 28th.