Gamecock alumni hosted the sixth annual Weight of the Eight Toy Giveaway in Florence, South Carolina, providing toys, blankets, and resources to over 150 children and families during the holiday season. The event, organized by podcast hosts Marquise Wideman, Rashawn McClam, and Eric Rupert, collected new and lightly used toys from drop-off sites in Charleston, Columbia, and Florence.​
Event Details
The giveaway occurred outside the Florence Family YMCA at Friendship Park, 1700 S Rutherford Dr, Florence, SC. Organizers, including Gamecock alumnus Deric Rush, also distributed free food to attendees. Drop-off locations like Florence County Library supported the drive for local children in need.​
Podcast Background
“Weight of the Eight” is a music review podcast spotlighting rising South Carolina artists, named after the state’s 803, 843, and 864 area codes. Hosts include Marquise Wideman, Rashawn McClam (sometimes listed as Jawaun or Rashawn), and Eric Ruppert (or SheRon Knight), focusing on local culture and sports discussions.​
Community Impact
Marquise Wideman emphasized the event’s purpose: supporting struggling families who “can’t do it for themselves.” [query] Incentives like raffles for gift cards encouraged donations ahead of the December 20 distribution. This annual initiative highlights community engagement in the Pee Dee region.​
