Making Prom Dreams a Reality: Sabrina’s Wish Offers Free Dresses and Suits
For the past two years, Lydia Robles, founder of Sabrina’s Wish, has been helping students across the Imperial Valley attend prom in style—without the financial burden. Through donations, the organization provides free formal attire, including dresses, high heels, suits, and dress shoes, ensuring that every student, regardless of their financial situation, has the opportunity to experience this special night.
Lydia’s journey to launching Sabrina’s Wish began 20 years ago after losing her high school friend, Sabrina, in a tragic car accident. The idea remained in her heart for two decades before she finally brought it to life last year.
“This project has been in the making for 20 years,” Robles shared. “I lost my dear friend in high school, and she never got the chance to attend prom. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to go either because my parents couldn’t afford a dress. That’s why I started Sabrina’s Wish—to help students and families who might be struggling financially.”
Helping Students Across the Valley
Sabrina’s Wish operates throughout the Imperial Valley, visiting high schools and hosting Prom Pop-Up Events where students can select from a wide range of formalwear at no cost. The 2025 Prom Pop-Up Event will take place at the following locations:
• Southwest High School – March 18-19
• Calipatria High School – March 20-21
• Brawley High School – March 24-25
• Imperial High School – March 26-27
• Holtville High School – March 31-April 1
• Central High School – April 7-8
• Calexico High School – April 9-10
Last year, Sabrina’s Wish distributed nearly 300 dresses. This year alone, the organization has already donated around 100 dresses and suits, with over 250 additional dresses donated so far.
“We try to help parents save money during these hard times,” Robles explained. “If we have the shoes, we give them shoes. If we have jewelry, we provide that too. The goal is to make sure students can attend prom without worrying about the cost.”
The organization carries a diverse range of sizes, from 0 to 20 and beyond, ensuring that all students have access to attire that fits their needs.
Expanding to Support Boys’ Formalwear
A new addition to Sabrina’s Wish this year is the expansion into men’s formalwear. The organization now offers slightly worn suits, dress shirts, ties, and pants to help young men prepare for their special night.
“We’ve had a great number of boys coming in looking for items,” said Yulil Garza, Education Outreach Coordinator for MAG Coalition, which partnered with Sabrina’s Wish for this expansion. “We’re not only honoring our loved ones through this effort but also making sure both boys and girls are being supported.”
Garza emphasized the importance of removing financial barriers to prom, saying, “This takes one more cost off of the prom night dream.”
How to Donate
Sabrina’s Wish relies entirely on donations. The organization accepts dresses, suits, ties, shoes, jewelry, and other formalwear items. Those interested in donating can drop off items at participating high schools or contact Lydia Robles directly at (760) 562-9593 to arrange a pickup.
“I started this project with the goal of collecting 50 dresses,” Robles reflected. “Instead, I received nearly 400. The support has been overwhelming, and it’s amazing to see how the community has come together to help make prom possible for so many students.”
With its continued success and growing support, Sabrina’s Wish is ensuring that no student in the Imperial Valley has to miss out on a memorable prom experience due to financial hardship.
Editorial Note: In a previous version of this article, an incorrect phone number was provided for donations. The correct number to contact Sabrina’s Wish for donations is (760) 562-9593. We strive to ensure all information we publish is accurate and factual; however, errors occasionally occur. We apologize for any confusion and appreciate your understanding.