Florence, S.C.: Community Comes Together to Provide Water for Students in Need
In the heart of Florence, South Carolina, a heartfelt initiative is underway to support students in the Asheville community facing a critical need for clean drinking water. The inspiring effort is being championed by Larry Jackson, who has dedicated nearly four decades of his life to education, serving in various roles from teacher to principal and superintendent of the Florence 1 Schools. Currently, Jackson is leading the Pee Dee Education Center, a vital resource hub that collaborates with 15 school districts to ensure students in the region thrive.
A Dire Situation in Asheville
Recent conversations between Jackson and the superintendent of schools in Asheville have revealed a pressing concern: the lack of portable water for students. “She indicated that they’re in dire need of water. Because they have no portable water for students to drink,” Jackson shared during a recent interview. As schools in Asheville prepare to reopen on October 28, they are facing this unfortunate situation. Jackson was moved to take action when he learned about the water crisis affecting these young learners.
A Call to Action
Recognizing the urgency of the matter, Jackson immediately reached out to the various school districts within the Pee Dee area and local churches, asking for donations of bottled water. “The only thing that separates us from North Carolina is the border. And so, we have the same mission, and that is to educate children,” he noted. This is a sentiment that resonates deeply within the community, as Florence and Asheville share the same dedication to enriching the lives of their students.
Support from the Community
Jackson’s message is clear: “Anything that we can do to make it a reality for them, to make it as convenient under the circumstances that they’re operating, the better.” This shared commitment to ensuring that students have the resources they need is what makes community initiatives like this so powerful. The Pee Dee Education Center has become a beacon of hope, rallying support and resources to help those in need.
Organizing the Effort
To facilitate the water drive, a generous group has even offered their truck to transport the bottled water to Asheville. Jackson urges anyone willing to help to contribute to this vital cause. “If you would like to donate bottled water to the cause, you’re urged to call the Pee Dee Education Center at (843)-661-1815,” he encouraged. Community members can also drop off water donations at their office, located at 520 Francis Marion Road in Florence.
A Community United
This initiative not only addresses a pressing need but also underscores the importance of community solidarity. As Florence pulls together its resources to support neighboring Asheville, it serves as a reminder of what can be accomplished when people come together for a common cause. Educators, students, and community members alike are all encouraged to join in this effort to ensure that no student goes thirsty.
Conclusion
As schools in Asheville prepare for their limited reopening, the hope is that this unified effort will make a significant difference for students facing adversity. With community members stepping up to donate bottled water, Larry Jackson and the Pee Dee Education Center are demonstrating that in times of need, compassion and solidarity can pave the way for positive change.
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
