The best kind of good works are those that are done without prompting.
Today, I met with a young lady whose mom works at ADHS. Earlier this month, Edie turned 8 and decided that instead of gifts she wanted to collect food for the food bank. But not just any kind of food – she decided to collect food for the Desert Mission “snack pack” program. The program finds kids who are at risk of going hungry over the weekend. The program provides food to 22 Phoenix-area schools and serves 1,400 children every week. The kid-friendly packs include pop-top soups, fresh fruit, cereal, mac ‘n cheese and juice.
Edie’s birthday was quite a success – she collected 124 pounds of food, enough to provide meals for 200 children. The food bank director presented her with a certificate and gave her family a tour of the facility. It was an amazing experience. Her mom says the best part was how Edie learned she has the power to change lives, and that made Edie feel proud of herself.
Desert Mission is one of several food banks in the state that are dependent upon donations. If you’re looking for an interesting family project this weekend (or anytime), check out the Association of Arizona Food Banks. And if you’re looking for inspiration – think of Edie or that one in four children in Arizona go to bed hungry every day.
Edie is an inspiration to us all. In a society which is becoming more and more about me, me, me, it is so refreshing to see someone so young be so concerned about helping others less fortunate than she is. How many other 8-year olds do I know who would forego birthday gifts for a cause she thought was important?
Not a one.
Edie, from your New York fan club, keep up the great work!
(PS: the fact that I am Edie’s grandfather had no impact on my remarks.)
Eric Pesso,
You are so right! She is an inspiration to us all!
Thanks!