More Than Just a Pencil: A Child’s Daily Struggle, students in need Indian River County

"Cause I Ain’t Got a Pencil" By Joshua T. Dickerson

I woke myself up Because we ain’t got an alarm clock Dug in the dirty clothes basket, Cause ain’t nobody washed my uniform Brushed my hair and teeth in the dark, Cause the lights ain’t on Even got my baby sister ready, Cause my mama wasn’t home. Got us both to school on time, to eat us a good breakfast. Then when I got to class the teacher fussed Cause I ain’t got a pencil.

This powerful poem by Joshua T. Dickerson shines a light on a heartbreaking truth: for many children, getting to school is already a victory. Having what they need when they get there—like a pencil, clean clothes, or a pair of shoes—is far from guaranteed.

In Indian River County, this struggle is all too real. Nearly 80% of our public school students qualify for free lunch. Their families, many of whom work full-time or multiple jobs, still can’t afford the basic essentials their children need to succeed in school.

At Kidz Closet Charities, we believe that every child deserves to walk into class with dignity—, dressed in clean clothes, with the supplies they need, and the confidence to learn. We provide free clothing and basic essentials to the children in our community who need it most, especially students in need Indian River County.

But we can't do it alone.

You can be the reason a child doesn't have to feel embarrassed or left out.You can be the reason a child has a pencil. Or a clean uniform. Or a warm jacket.

👉 Visit www.kidzcloset.org to donate today.Your support will help us make sure no child is held back simply because they don’t have the basics.

Because sometimes—it really is so much more than just a pencil.