My name is Lauren Weaver and I am in 4th grade at Osceola Magnet School. I want to tell you about why I help the Source.
When I was 7 years old, I saw a homeless man on a bench at Pocahontas Park. I worried about him and asked my parents a lot of questions like
Why are people homeless? Where do they sleep? Where do they get food?
My parents encouraged me to think of something I could do for this man. After much thought, I decided to take $25 dollars of my saved allowance to buy him a Christmas Present. My plan was to fill a box full of items that he might need. My parents were proud of me and said they would match my $25 dollars so that I would have $50 dollars for the perfect gift!
My mom told me about the Source and suggested that we call and ask for ideas. The Source told me to think of things that we use every day such as tooth brush, tooth paste, clean socks, shampoo, canned food and snacks. So, I made a list and we were off to the store to do our shopping. Much to my surprise I was able to buy enough to fill up 7 boxes!
After wrapping them in pretty gold Christmas paper, we went to the park to deliver our first box to my homeless friend. We approached and gave him the gift with a big “MERRY CHRISTMAS.” He was stunned and said “I haven’t had a present since I was a boy!”
Then we went to the Source to deliver our other packages. As we approached the building, I heard Christmas Carols. They had just finished the evening meal and were all singing songs. After delivering the boxes and pulling away, I felt something inside that is hard explain. I was happy, but at the same time, I had tears in my eyes. I remember my mom saying, “Now you know what it means to cry happy tears.” And, my dad said, “You’ve also learned the real meaning of Christmas!”
Last year, with help from my family and friends, we made 39 boxes. This year, my goal is 100 boxes and I think we are going to make it!
Thank you for letting me share my story about why I help the homeless. I hope that you will help the Source too.
Read more about Lauren's most recent Christmas Drive held at Waldo's Restaurant
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