by Krista Schap for the Preston Times

This holiday season, Hendrix Wilson, a 6-year-old from Miles, had the idea that he wanted to give back and honor the Christmas spirit. He hosted a canned goods drive to donate to a local pantry and to Easton Valley School District.

Hendrix set out on a mission with help of his parents Charlie and Deven Wilson to have food dropped off at his home or he would be happy to pick up local items. Hendrix’s mom Deven said in a Facebook post to announce the idea that, “He is really excited to take his own money to Walmart and buy goods to donate himself. I am really proud of this kid and his heart of gold.”

Within a week, Hendrix went on his first trip to Walmart for food and hygiene products after folks had donated roughly $500 through Venmo. He filled up an entire cart in the first trip and made plans to go back for more. After this first trip Hendrix and his mom Deven sent a message of thanks to all of those who donated whether it be through Venmo or dropped off their own food and donations. He was so proud to be giving back this Christmas season. In the end, he made three trips to shop for goods.

On December 19th Hendrix completed his Christmas can drive. To say he exceeded the expectations would be a major understatement. Hendrix helped unload the goods at Easton Valley Elementary for them to place the goods in the hands of those in need. Deven Hendrix’s Mother commented, “As parents we couldn’t be more proud but also incredibly grateful to those of you who supported him and passed along the Christmas spirit. Not to mention touched those in need. We hope everyone has a blessed, healthy and happy holiday.”

When we caught up with Hendrix after his drive, we asked him a few questions about how he felt about the overall success of the drive and funds raised.
Hendrix, why did you decide to purchase food and hygiene products and donate to school? “So, I could be nice and do things for other people”.
Can you tell readers what made you want to help out your school and community? “I watched a movie about giving back during Christmas. I don’t want anyone to be hungry.”
How did you feel when you made the donation? “I felt good. I was proud of myself”.

1st grader Hendrix Wilson raised $500 to purchase food and hygiene products to donate to school. The Easton Valley team couldn’t wait to hand this out to families in need this holiday season.

 

Hendrix’s Mom said on her Facebook page “To those of you who have donated via Venmo or dropped off your own food – THANK YOU for showing our little boy the kindness we are trying to teach him to show! He’s so proud to be giving back this Christmas season.”

 

Hendrix’s first trip to Walmart for food and hygiene products for those in need was a major success. He filled up an entire cart and plans to go back for more.