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They helped set-up tables, chairs and stations for backpacks, books, games, shoes, and clothing. Students from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s inaugural Summer Success Program (SSP) were pleased to be a part of the Saturday, Aug. 3 East St. Louis Health Fair and Back-to-School Giveaway, hosted by the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center in East St. Louis. 

The free event was a combined effort with Meridian Health of Illinois, who sponsored free health screenings and consultations, and Focus on the City of East St. Louis, who funded the giveaway. All 24 SSP participants, Program Assistants Capri Wroten and Kristina Beck, and Program Coordinator Fannie Acoff attended. 

Makesha Harris Lee, EdD, assistant director for Pre-Collegiate Programs and SSP creator and director, wanted students to have an opportunity to experience volunteering and community service. The goal of the SSP program is to help first-generation college students be successful in the transition from high school to college. 

“Since Southern Illinois University Edwardsville often works directly with the East St. Louis community, and the event organizers were in great need of volunteers, we decided to pitch in!” said Acoff. “The assistance that the SSP students provided was greatly appreciated.” 

The health portion of the fair included diabetes and dental screenings, and weight and body mass consultations. The giveaway also included free toys and sports equipment. In addition, there were door prizes, free ice cream provided by Pirtle’s Famous Ice Cream, entertainment by radio station 104 The Heat, and the first 100 families received a $20 Save-A-Lot gift cards. One lucky participant won a Samsung Chromebook laptop. 

 Focus on the City founder Alonzo A. Perrin started the organization in honor of the community service of his mother, Toni Perrin, a former educator, and his late father Alonzo Perrin, a police chief.  

“I am extremely grateful for the SIUE students’ participation at the Focus on the City event,” said Perrin. “They were a great addition to our success, and I feel they learned more about the importance of giving back and philanthropy. Thanks to Fannie Acoff and the SIUE Summer Success Program participants.”

Photos:
SIUE Summer Success Program (SSP) students provided community service to the East St. Louis Health Fair and Back-to-School Giveaway. On the far right Alonzo A. Perrin smiles with his mother, Toni Perrin. 

Holding a backpack is SSP student Kiely Swanson with Renata Macias assisting. 

Stacking one of the book tables are SSP students (L-R) Sydney Blocker, Joshlyn Robinson and Knolla Smith. Allen Williams is in the background.