DeJohn Flanders said he got the idea to make a holiday donation to the after seeing another act of charity on television. The Halo Awards, which Nickelodeon sponsors to recognize teenagers for outstanding acts, had honored a 13-year-old boy working to bring soccer fields to Africa. Flanders was inspired to give on a more local level and help out children at the shelter.
On Thursday morning, Flanders and his first grade class from the delivered their donations to the shelter. These included books, clothes, toiletries, and money. Big Y also contributed donations to the effort, including games and puzzles.
"It was all DeJohn's idea, and the kids thought it would be a great idea," said Sarah Magee, Flanders' teacher.
Catherine Foley, executive director of the Covenant Shelter, said the gifts will help the children who use the shelter on a year-round basis.
"This is just phenomenal that the children are coming together to give to the children of the homeless center," said Foley.
