By Aman Chabra, Local News 8 Reporter
IDAHO FALLS - Ball gowns of all sizes, style and color were on sale in an unlikely place Saturday.
The Idaho Falls Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Center held its 2nd Annual Ball Gown Exchange fundraiser Saturday.
More than 50 dresses hung from racks in different rooms at the shelter. Organizers say calling the dresses a bargain would be an understatement.
"No dress item is over 50 dollars. Some of these gowns have paid more than three or four hundred dollars, and they've only been worn once," said Teena McBride, who organized Saturday's fundraiser.
With school in session again, and formal dances such as Homecoming just around the corner, dozens of girls made their way to the shelter to see the inventory. All were impressed.
"A lot of these dresses will go for more in other places than they are selling here, and it's a great opportunity for everyone to get their dresses for the school year," said Melanie Klingler of Skyline High School.
Klingler was just one of the many girls who found exactly what they were looking for.
"My dress is light blue, and has stars and sparkles all over it. Everything I tried on though was great. This was a great opportunity for girls to come down and check out some cool dresses for great prices," said Valerie Summers, a senior at Hillcrest High School.
Not only were the prices great, but the money spent goes toward a good cause.
"The money goes to help the victims of violent crime here at the shelter," said McBride.
Last year, McBride and members of the shelter board decided to try the gown exchange as a way to raise money. They sold numerous dresses, and raised about 600 dollars.
"We hope to raise more this year, and we think we'll get more because we've already seen double the amount of people come through the doors," said McBride.
Organizers say the gown exchange will happen again the last Saturday in August next year. They say he could need a change of venue if it continues to grow.
