Young donor helps hungry neighbors

Emery’s generosity provided neighbors with more than 200 meals.

Don’t tell 10-year-old Emery that a kid can’t change the world.

“It doesn’t matter how old you are,” she says. “You can always make a difference.”

Emery, a Salem resident, proved that recently when she donated enough money to the Food Share to provide more than 200 meals for hungry neighbors.

Emery had saved up for a whole year to make her generous gift. She did it by portioning money gifted from family members into one of three compartments in her piggy bank — one for spending, one for saving, and one for sharing.

“Every year, I save and save and save,” she says. “Not a lot goes into spending. I’m more interested in saving and sharing because I definitely have enough [stuffed animals].”

When the Save and Share portions of her bank became full, Emery knew she wanted to help people experiencing hunger.

“I wanted to give it to all of the people who need it because they don’t have enough food,” she says. “But I thought, ‘How can I distribute it all?’”

She knew the Food Share could do that.

Emery was familiar with the Food Share’s mission through her involvement in the Camp Fire youth organization. She and fellow members of the Wolfpack, a local branch of the organization, have been volunteering regularly at the Food Share’s warehouse and at the Youth Farm for several years.

Emery’s mom, Deb, placed the donation on her daughter’s behalf. She said Emery recently told her, “Mom, every time we drive by people that look like they need help, I want to do something.”

Emery wants people of all ages to know it doesn’t take much to make an impact, and that adults and kids alike are capable of helping uplift their neighbors in need.

“Just by saving $10, that could make all the difference to people who need help,” she says. “Even if you only help one person, it’ll make a difference.” 

Just like you, Emery wants to do whatever she can to help hungry neighbors. We hope you’re inspired by her example!