There are some students of Picayune Memorial High School who need more than just help with their school work.

Some students live in homes where addiction creates financial issues, or the parents work lots of hours just to try to make ends meet. 

That is where social studies teacher Allison Wheat comes in. She seeks out those students who may not have the necessities most have come to take for granted, such as underwear and personal hygiene products, and provides them to those in need.

She’s been able to accomplish this feat through the generosity of community members, who have helped keep her “supply closet” stocked.

Through community donations, Wheat said she’s been able to provide these students with underwear, toothpaste, and school uniforms. 

Anyone who has gently used maroon, gray, or white shirts that match the uniform requirements at Picayune High School can donate them to the cause by bringing them to the school, Wheat said. Belts and khaki, gray and blue pants are also appreciated.

But collecting clothes is not the only thing Wheat does to ensure her students have the best possible experience at school. If she becomes aware of a student who can’t attend a dance, she helps there as well.

In fact, last year she began collecting gently used prom dresses.

“We call it the princess project,” Wheat said. 

Prom is an expensive evening, especially when the child comes from a home with minimal income. Wheat said the $75 ticket is just the beginning, there’s also the cost to have hair and makeup done. Last year was the first year for the project, but they were able to collect 150 dresses. To ensure the students looked their best, Pearl River Community College cosmetology students and representatives with Ulta came to the school to help the girls look their best. A seamstress has also donated her services to ensure the dresses fit each student.

Friday members of the Picayune Exchange Club heard about Wheat’s work to help the students, and to learn what they can do to help. 

However, the community can still pitch in. Wheat said if anyone has a prom dress that would help a student, they can bring those items to the school.