Prom Costume Campaign Helps Buffalo Youth in Many Ways

Buffalo, New York (WBEN) – St. Brians Clothiers, a charitable organization and haberdashery currently operating through pop-up shops throughout the city of Buffalo, has partnered with the Buffalo Sabers and the city to accept donations of free prom suits and shoes for student-athletes from the Buffalo school, plus mentoring just in time for prom.

“This is a program to prepare student-athletes for their future. We talk to them about the current situation, their present self and what they can do to preserve their future,” explains the founder of St. Brians, Dewitt Lee III, who emphasizes that it’s much more than just making sure students are dressed for success.

“This particular program talks to kids about the consequences of drinking and driving, the consequences of people engaging in illegal activities. We talk about sexual assault, we talk about social media responsibilities, and we talk about many other areas that seem important to us don’t get discussed because it’s a little uncomfortable.

Lee not only did his presentations physically at our local schools like Lafayette High School on Tuesday, but he also did his presentations virtually to ensure all children could have a safe and happy prom night.

Lee notes that there are true and sad stories of students who lost their scholarships because of their actions and what they say on social media. Lee wants to make sure these opportunities aren’t wasted on Buffalo’s youth.

“It’s hard to get them to stop and pay attention. We can use this as an opportunity to gain knowledge, wisdom, experience, this is the time to do it. And we know that there are so many horror stories, that I showed them. We’re not making this up. It’s happening in real time.

This project began over two years ago, when Lee’s charitable efforts were highlighted during the horrific Tops mass shooting on May 14, 2022. Lee was trying on free costumes for young men who attended funerals and job interviews. That dastardly day coincided with prom season, and Lee had already had a vocation for buying suits at thrift stores before the events of 5/14.

“We found that by taking the time to dress someone, you also get a special opportunity to address what’s going on in their life,” notes Lee.

Lee sees helping to build community in addition to mentoring as just one small way to help his community in important ways, especially in times when they need it most.

“It’s a responsibility, it’s ingrained. It’s what my dad did, it’s what my mom did as a nurse for decades. I’ve seen and heard stories about their servitude to the community And it’s everyone’s responsibility to respond, isn’t it? Not responding is not an option, is it? you to do it.”

On Saturday, the lower concourse of the KeyBank Center will be transformed into the St. Brians showcase. Buffalo teens will get step-by-step tips for styling their hair for the perfect prom night.

“They’re going to go through the stations, they’re going to get their shirts, they’re going to find their suits, we’re going to pick out their ties, get the shoes and the handkerchief and any other adjustments that we might make to it. And we’re going to have a lot of men who helped me on this trip who will come here to help dress these men because this experience is the most important We’re not just going to say, “Hey, you know, go pick it, and good luck, don’t. Right? They’ll be accompanied by someone who’s been to prom before and will share wisdom and advice with them and just build camaraderie,” Lee said.

The Buffalo Sabers are accepting suit jackets, dress pants, dress shirts, belts, ties and/or dress shoes through Saturday, May 23, just stop by the box office and access Account Services .