Need a prom dress? Go to Eppy’s Attic to find one

By Amanda Tonoli

atonoli@vindy.com

EAST PALESTINE

More than 300 dresses and suits are available for free to students in need in an upstairs classroom of East Palestine High School. This creation is known as Eppy’s Attic.

“We just asked ourselves, ‘What can we do to make our kids’ lives better overall?’” said Traci Hostetler, East Palestine superintendent.

Emily Randolph, teacher and Key Communicator Committee leader, was the driving force behind Eppy’s.

“I just really wanted to give students in need an opportunity to go to the dances,” Randolph said. “It’s a really great experience without the financial stress.”

The importance of the school-dance experience, she added, is the socialization of the district’s students.

“I think it’s important for them to feel comfortable with who they are in the company of others,” she said.

One of the most unique aspects of Eppy’s is that students who obtain attire from it are able to keep it.

“They’re not borrowing this experience we’re giving them, so why would they have to borrow the dresses?” Randolph said.

Eppy’s is an entirely donation-based project costing only the time of students and staff.

“It’s a great opportunity for everyone to be a part of,” said senior student Blair Nulf. “You get a better understanding that some people are not as fortunate as others.”

Eppy’s is accepting donations of dresses, services – like hairstyling, makeup sessions and more – and money to grow what began as what Randolph called a “minor thought.”

Donations can be made by emailing emily.randolph@epschools.k12.oh.us.

Randolph said she hopes through Eppy’s that she is able to teach students about the importance of giving and the feeling you get from it.

“Kindness feels good no matter what,” Hostetler said.

Students from any other schools who are in need of Eppy’s services can reach out through their school guidance counselors or principals who can email chris.neifer@Myepschools.org or rich.cyrus@myepschools.org for details.

Currently, Eppy’s dresses in all colors and sizes from zero through 26 are available.