Young students keeping King’s dream alive with clothing drive

Two Lawrenceville School brothers extend the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. dream Saturday as their collection of coats, shoes and other clothing items for distribution serve as part of a Young Scholars Institute outreach.

Kylan Tatum, a freshman, and Tai Tatum, a junior, members of Jack and Jill of America Mercer Chapter, initiated this drive to support local individuals and families.

“There are so many families in need, and I wanted to do something impactful in the community for both children and their parents,” Kylan explained as a genesis for his interest.

Tai described a personal history of philanthropy.

“I’ve been collecting shoes to donate to others since I was in middle

school. After having the opportunity to work with YSI this past summer, I wanted to do something to give back to the community that gave me so much,” he explained.

Jerri Morrison, executive director at YSI, invited community members to collect coats, shoes and other items at the campus from 1-3 p.m. YSI is located at 349 West State St. in Trenton.

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a membership of organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.