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Divine Dancers partner with junior high

Divine Dancers partner with junior high
Divine Dancers of the Delta include Joyce Murry, left, Katrina Bell, Frankie Hemphill, Marisa Harris, Divne Dancers founder Beverly Blunt, Janet Smith, Janice Williams, Linda Murray, Mary Ann Trice and Beverly Wooten. (Special to The Commercial)

The Divine Dancers of the Delta (3-D), a community dance group led by Beverly Blunt, has partnered with Pine Bluff Junior High School to support students in need.

The group recently donated more than 500 items, including toothpaste, deodorant, soap, lotion, hair care supplies, snacks, undergarments and other hygiene essentials, according to a news release.

When there is a need in the community, the Divine Dancers of the Delta respond, according to a news release.

After hearing that the school was experiencing shortages, Blunt, a Pine Bluff High School graduate, contacted former classmate Deborah Thomas, PBJH school social worker, to ask how 3-D could help.

That conversation became a call to action with the dance team stepping in to meet daily needs that often arise for students, according to the release.

“We are more than just a dance class,” Blunt said. “We love our community, and we want to make a difference.”

Principal LaTanya Paige-Harris, Assistant Principal Trina Green, counselor Cathryn D. Laurent, district Health Services Director Mae Hawkins-Coleman, nurse Debra Deshazier, Thomas and students who expressed their gratitude for the support welcomed the donation.

Looking ahead, the Divine Dancers of the Delta have pledged ongoing assistance through the school’s Parent Teacher Organization, Social Work and Nursing departments and Girls Mentoring Group. They also plan to volunteer at school events.

“The partnership you’ve established with our school and community truly shows the heart behind your motto of ‘reaching hearts and souls through hearts and soul,'” Thomas told the dance team. “The Divine Dancers of the Delta are proving that community impact is about more than movement; it’s about service, compassion, and making sure every student has the chance to succeed. We will forever be grateful.”