ALTAMONT — “Prom is a big deal,” says Rhonda Flansburg, the owner of Re-Nue Spa in the village. “It’s a time for kids to get dressed up, to feel glamorous and important for one day. Everyone wants that.”

Flansburg is concerned about the kids in Schoharie whose homes were ravaged by Tropical Storm Irene last August. So her shop is collecting “gently used gowns and suits” for the 2012 Schoharie High School prom.

“Many people lost their homes and jobs from Hurricane Irene,” she said, “but want to see their children get back to a sense of normalcy in their lives. The prom is an event that is normal for many so why not help make it stress-free and affordable for everyone?”

The spa at 119 Maple Ave., which is open Tuesday through Saturday, is collecting suits and gowns until April 28.

The clothes will then be given to the Schoharie County “An Evening to Remember” Prom Project 2012. Prom-goers will not be charged to use the clothes, which they borrow and then return for others to use.

All prom attire is in a warehouse set up like a store, at 1698 Route 7 in Cobleskill near the Cheer Dome. Prom-goers may call Misty at 1-607-267-6818 for an appointment to pick out what they need.

Re-Nue Spa is also offering specials — on hair styling, manicures and pedicures, facials, and massages — to make prom-going more affordable, Flansburg said. Details are on the spa’s website at HYPERLINK "http://www.AltamontRenueSpa.com" www.AltamontRenueSpa.com.

“Re-Nue Spa is grateful for our clients and community that support us,” concluded Flansburg. “We will always give back to the community and continue to help out whenever we can. We hope that by collecting dresses and suits, it will help ease the burdens of the families after the devastating hurricane. Let’s help make prom 2012 amazing!”

— Melissa Hale-Spencer