DJ's Care Closet
Meeting Essential Needs, One Student at a Time
DJ’s Care Closet is a vital program created to serve grade-school students and their families in Memphis, TN, and surrounding communities. Named in honor of Dennis “DJ” Price Jr., this program exists to ensure that no child is held back in school—or life—because they lack access to basic necessities.
DJ’s legacy lives on in every backpack filled, every child encouraged, and every future made a little brighter.
Why DJ’s Care Closet Matters
In Memphis, 36.3% of children lived in poverty in 2024.
That means thousands of students lack the basic items they need to succeed in school and in life.
When students lack access to clean clothes, hygiene products, or school supplies, it affects not only their academic performance and attendance but also their self-esteem and ability to focus.
DJ’s Care Closet helps relieve that burden by supplying:
-
School uniforms and shoes
-
Socks and underwear
-
Personal hygiene and hair care products
-
Backpacks and school supplies
-
Non-perishable food items
When these basic needs are met, kids can focus on what truly matters—learning, growing, and simply being kids.
Voices from the Community
"Because of DJ's Care Closet, our students have access to much-needed school and personal supplies. One student became displaced during the school year, and DJ's Care Closet provided him with clothes, personal hygiene products, hair products, and school supplies throughout the year… Seeing how the students react when they enter DJ's Care Closet is as rewarding and as positive as them actually receiving the items."
— School Staff Member, Memphis, TN
“DJ’s Care Closet should be in every school. As educators we know that students cannot focus on learning when their basic needs aren’t met. Having this resource available removes significant barriers to education and creates a more equitable learning environment. The model works because it provides discreet, dignified access to essential that many students otherwise go without. When students don’t have to worry about basic necessities they can focus on their studies, participate more fully in school activities and build healthy relationships with peers and teachers. Every school community has students facing similar challenges, and every student deserves access to basic necessities that support their ability to learn and grow”
— Educator, Memphis, TN
“I am very comfortable and very grateful for DJ’s Care Closet.”
— Student, Memphis, TN
“DJ’s Care Closet helped me out by providing things and clothes I wasn’t able to buy.”
— Student, Memphis, TN
“DJ’s Care Closet helped provide the things I need.”
— Student, Memphis, TN
Where We Serve
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and donors, DJ’s Care Closet is currently active in:
-
Ridgway Middle School
-
Westwood High School
-
Geeter K-8 (newest location)
We also support students through:
-
The Backpack Bash
-
Partnerships with local youth organizations
2024 Impact
1,600+ students reached through schools and community programs.
How You Can Help
DJ’s Care Closet is 100% powered by our community—individuals, businesses, churches, and sponsors who believe every child deserves to feel confident, prepared, and cared for.
Make a Difference Today
Sponsorships are monetary gifts that directly support the purchase of essential items for students in need.
Ways to Give:
-
Adopt a School’s Closet
Provide year-round support for one school’s closet—tailored to the students' needs.
-
Sponsor Backpacks & Supplies
Equip students for success during seasonal drives and mid-year restocks.
-
Give Monthly
Join our monthly giving community to help sustain closets and respond to urgent needs.
Ready to Give?
Want to give in honor of a loved one or through your business, church, or civic group?
Contact us at admin@thedennispricejrfoundation.com to learn more about partnership opportunities.
Want to stay informed about DJ’s Care Closet? Follow us on our social media: Facebook