DRPS Hosting Two Community Events to Help Youth Prepare for Grad

Spring graduation celebrations are approaching, and the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) is once again hosting two community‑driven initiatives aimed at helping local youth attend their graduation celebrations with confidence and pride.

Gowns for Grads and Suits for Youth support youth who may face financial barriers by providing free dresses and accessories for prom and graduation. With some formal dresses costing hundreds of dollars — in addition to shoes, hair services, and accessories — many students would otherwise be unable to participate in these milestone events.

In addition to Gowns for Grads, Suits for Youth helps outfit young people with suits, ties, and accessories they can use not only for graduation, but also for job interviews and future employment opportunities.

Gowns for Grads is currently seeking donations of new or gently used dresses, shoes, accessories, as well as gift certificates for hair salons, makeup services, spas, and florists. Businesses or individuals interested in donating are encouraged to email gownsforgrads@drps.ca.

Suits for Youth is accepting new or gently used suits (size 40 or smaller), jackets, pants, shirts, ties, and bow ties.

Donations can be dropped off at any DRPS Division before April 6, 2026. Suit donations may also be dropped off at Oshawa Centre Guest Services.

Event details are as follows:

• Gowns for Grads
Saturday, April 25, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
G.L. Roberts Collegiate and Vocational Institute
399 Chaleur Avenue, Oshawa

• Suits for Youth
Thursday, April 16, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Oshawa Centre - 419 King Street West, Oshawa (Food Court entrance to the lower level)

For more information, organizers can be reached at gownsforgrads@drps.ca or suitsforyouths@drps.ca. Posters with additional details are attached.

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