South Central Kentucky Cinderella’s Closet to Return March 14
Members of the group have been hard at work for weeks preparing for upcoming activities. Pictured from left are Courtney Benefield, Katie Stallons, Deanna Dickerson, Emily Woods, Laura Bale, Christy Flatt, Eva Wagner, Julie Edwards, Harriett Renfro, and Beverly Hammons. Not pictured is board member Kristen Bale. PHOTO | Submitted
By Jeff Jobe
Publisher, JOBEnews
GLASGOW — What began as a simple act of volunteering has grown into a cherished annual tradition helping young women across the region feel confident and celebrated on one of the biggest nights of their high school years.
In 2013, Courtney Benefield, Julie Edwards, Brenda Chaney and Linda Lou Cook traveled to Frankfort to volunteer at Central Kentucky Cinderella’s Closet. Inspired by what they saw, the group returned home determined to create a similar opportunity for girls in South Central Kentucky. The following year, in 2014, they hosted the first local Cinderella’s Closet on the second Saturday of March, serving 25 girls. Since then, the event has taken place annually except for 2020 and 2021 and has continued to grow. In 2025, the organization welcomed 85 participants. Benefield now serves as head of the Cinderella’s Closet board.
Organizers say the event is about more than dresses. From the moment participants arrive, the goal is to make each girl feel valued and supported. After registering, attendees receive appointment times and are paired with a volunteer “Fairy Godmother” who helps them choose everything they need for prom, including dresses, shoes and jewelry. Seamstresses are also on site to make alterations immediately if needed.
By the end of their visit, each participant leaves with a steamed and tailored outfit, accessories and gift items such as makeup, devotionals and personal care products, all provided free of charge.
Dresses ready to help make a wonderful meaning for a young lady. PHOTO | Submitted
Any student in need who plans to attend prom is welcome. The organization works with area school Youth Service Coordinators to share information with eligible students, and families may also contact organizers directly through social media or email to request registration details. There is no set limit on attendance, as organizers hope to assist as many girls as possible in and around the Barren County area.
This year’s Cinderella’s Closet will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Glasgow First United Methodist Church. Girls needing a dress are encouraged to register in advance to receive an appointment time.
Community members wishing to donate dresses, shoes, jewelry or monetary support may drop off items at Glasgow First United Methodist Church Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those interested in volunteering can contact organizers through Facebook or email for additional information.
“The most rewarding part of the day is seeing each girl’s face light up when she finds the perfect dress,” said Courtney Benefield.
