Adopt-A-Grad Foundation of Canada held their Formal Wear Event over the weekend to help local grads find suits or dresses for their graduation.

Over the weekend, the foundation was able to help 39 grads from Airdrie, Crossfield, Cochrane and a few other communities.

Mike Reist, co-founder of Adopt-A-Grad Foundation of Canada talked about how the weekend event went.

"It was a good turnout, so much so, [that] we are trying to hold another Formal Wear Event soon."

While the date or venue has yet to be set, the foundation does plan to make an official announcement shortly so they can help out even more grads if needed.

Reist stated seeing the parent's reaction to their children trying on a dress or suit is truly something special, especially since they could be going through a tough time.

"One mom lit up when she saw her son come out of the changing room [and] the suit fits him perfectly. Other parents were very emotional and thankful for the foundation. It is always a good feeling to watch all the kids try on these clothes and find something that works for them."

All of the clothes that the grads pick are donated to the foundation by Airdronians or anybody willing to donate formal wear.

"We're doing it for the families that are struggling. If they come to us and say we need a suit or dress, we will help them the best we can."

Formally known as the Jack and Jill Project, the foundation has been around since 2018. It has fundraised around $50,000 and helped 150 grads acquire their graduation attire.

"We're just happy that many people are taking advantage of the program so they don't have to worry about the cost of graduation dresses and suits."

Reist does hope the foundation can expand all the provinces and territories around Canada in the future so every grad has the chance to dress up for their graduation.

Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@discoverairdrie.com. You can also message and follow us on Twitter: @AIR1061FM

DiscoverAirdrie encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the DiscoverAirdrie app. For breaking news, weather and contest alerts click here.