‘Dorm Ready’ initiative held at Dillon City Wellness Center

By Vickie Rogers

The “Dorm Ready” initiative, led by Teresa and Joseph Pernell, took place on Saturday, July 13 at the City of Dillon Wellness Center gymnasium at 10 a.m. Now in its third year, the initiative aimed to equip students with essential supplies needed for their upcoming school year on campus.
The event drew a large crowd, with eager students forming a long line before the doors opened. Teresa Pernell noted that they were able to provide much-needed supplies to nearly 300 students. The initiative is primarily funded by savings accumulated by the Pernell family starting in January of each year, supplemented by donations from the community.
The supplies distributed included practical items such as laundry detergent, paper towels, deodorant, shampoo, body wash and toilet paper, essentials for starting the school year off right. Beyond these basic items, students also had the opportunity to win valuable prizes such as laptops and televisions, adding an element of excitement to the event.
Teresa Pernell highlighted the strong community support for the initiative, with approximately 95 percent of the funding coming directly from the Pernell family’s contributions. The remaining 5 percent was generously donated by community members. The Pernell Family Academy Services and Community Center, established in 2021, plays a critical role in coordinating and managing the logistics of the initiative. Special recognition was given to community service organizations such as the Mu Kappa Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and the Beta Theta Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, whose involvement further enhanced the impact of the event.
A notable addition to this year’s initiative was the inclusion of inspirational quote cards attached to each basket of supplies, aimed at encouraging and motivating students as they embark on their academic journey.
For those wishing to support or donate to the Dorm Ready initiative, the Pernell family can be contacted at 843-627-3121.
The “Dorm Ready” initiative exemplifies a commendable community effort to support students by providing basic supplies and promoting a positive start to the academic year.