Community project helps military spouses Published Oct. 25, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Stephen Linch 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Cinderella was glamorous from head to toe for the night at the prince's ball. Though her dress was elegant and her glass slippers sparkling, she didn't do it alone. It took a fairy godmother to transform her for that ball. Fortunately, looking glamorous for special evenings doesn't take magic for Whiteman spouses. Thanks to a collaboration of the base and local communities, military spouses can be ready for that special occasion. The Cinderella Project provides formal attire for military spouses free of charge so they can attend formal functions such as Airmen leadership school graduations, yearly awards ceremonies or induction ceremonies. "Nothing is more exciting than helping a spouse look and feel beautiful for a night out," said Sheri Marler, Cinderella Project representative. The project was started in 2006 by collecting formal gowns for spouses who were unable to afford one, said Lori Hornback, Cinderella Project representative. The gowns were made available to spouses who needed one, free of charge. The gowns are theirs to keep, or they can have them cleaned and bring them back, she added. Special Occasions in Odessa is one of the organizations that donated gowns to the project. "We donated about 35 gowns to Whiteman for military spouses because we truly felt that was the best way to use them," said Alison Pulliam, Special Occasions bridal consultant. Approximately 100 gowns being donated by the community is what made the Cinderella Project possible. "I think it is amazing how quickly this project took off here - not only was the response for donations quick from the members of the military community, the communities around us as far as Odessa have given generously to this project," said Michelle VanBemmelen, Cinderella Project representative. "That says a lot for the members of Whiteman and the communities in which we all live." How the program works: 1. Go to the Airmen and Family Readiness Center. 2. Pick out a gown, try it on. 3. If you like it, take it. 4. You may keep the gown, or after you wear it, have it cleaned and brought back for someone else to enjoy. For more information call 563-5614 or email luvmychief97@yahoo.com.