The Dennis Price Jr. Foundation just opened its third Care Closet. This time it’s at Geeter K-8 School in South Memphis. This meaningful addition ensures that students in the 38109 zip code will have ongoing access to clothing, hygiene products, school supplies, and other essential items completely free of charge.
What’s a Care Closet?
The Care Closet is a resource for students who might otherwise go without.
“We wanted to eliminate any barriers between students and success. Whether it’s not having clean socks, deodorant, or a winter coat, we want to step in where help is needed.”
The newly launched Geeter K-8 Care Closet joins two others in Memphis-area schools, all created with the same goal: empowering students to show up as their best selves. That means making sure no one’s confidence, focus, or attendance is hindered by a lack of basic items.
It’s one of those things that makes a bigger difference than most people realize.
The Legacy of Dennis “DJ” Price Jr.
To understand the heart behind this project, you have to know a little about Dennis Price Jr., affectionately known as DJ.
Born and raised in Memphis, DJ was a student-athlete at Ridgeway High School and a beloved member of the Mid-South basketball community. His passion for the game was unmatched, but it was his character, kindness, and care for others that truly set him apart.
DJ was the type of student who would share his lunch, offer an encouraging word, and help classmates who were struggling with no fanfare and no expectation of credit. He saw people. And he showed up for them.
In 2013, at just 16 years old, DJ tragically passed away in his sleep due to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that often goes undetected. It was a loss that rocked the city and one that planted the seeds for something greater.
A decade later, in 2023, The Dennis Price Jr. Foundation was born on the exact anniversary of DJ’s passing, 10 years to the day. Its mission is to carry DJ’s compassion forward and turn tragedy into tangible support for Memphis youth.
Why Geeter K-8 and 38109 Matter
Located in South Memphis, Geeter K-8 serves hundreds of students in the 38109 zip code, an area rich in resilience, culture, and community pride, but often under-resourced.
By opening the Care Closet here, The Dennis Price Jr. Foundation is sending a clear message: Our kids are worth investing in. Their needs matter. Their futures matter.
This act of care will remove quiet burdens from many young shoulders and remind students that they are seen, supported, and surrounded by a city that believes in them.
How You Can Help
The Care Closets are stocked through donations, community partnerships, and the ongoing generosity of Memphians who care. If you’d like to get involved, here are a few ways:
✅ Donate supplies like deodorant, socks, toothbrushes, notebooks, and gently used clothing
✅ Contribute financially to support upkeep and expansion of Care Closets
✅ Volunteer your time or services with the Foundation
✅ Share DJ’s story and help raise awareness about Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
➡️ Learn more and get involved: www.thedennispricejrfoundation.com
