Grads walk tall with Suit Up Winnipeg

Crescentwood

A grassroots initiative in Winnipeg is helping students walk into graduation parties and ceremonies with confidence and pride. Suit Up Winnipeg, a volunteer-driven charity, collects gently used formal wear and provides it to Grade 12 graduates who may not otherwise be able to afford an outfit for their big days.

“Suit Up Winnipeg is about more than just clothing,” said founder Dana Binder. “It’s about giving students confidence and helping them feel their best as they celebrate an important milestone.”

Students register through their schools and are scheduled for a two-hour appointment, at which they receive a personalized shopping experience. Volunteers work one-on-one with each grad to find the right fit and style.

“It’s incredible to watch the transformation,” Binder said. “You can see them stand a little taller and smile a little bigger when they find the perfect outfit.”

The program began in 2012, when Binder noticed a gap while working at an inner-city school. While female students had access to dresses through programs such as Gowns for Grads, male students often went without. A simple call for donations on Facebook quickly grew into a citywide effort.

“To date, we’ve helped more than 2,500 graduates across Manitoba,” Binder said. “And many of them continue to wear their suits for job interviews and other important events.”

While donations of clean, modern formal wear — especially smaller-sized suits — are always needed, financial support is equally important.

“It costs us about $40 to suit up each student,” Binder explained. “People can truly make an impact— sponsor a grad for only $40.”

“Community support is what keeps this program going,” she said. “Every dollar helps us stay open and serve more students.”

People can support the program by reaching out through its Facebook or Instagram pages, or simply email at suitupwinnipeg@gmail.com.