As parents, we want to teach our kids important life lessons—ones that shape their character and show them the value of caring for others. One of the most powerful lessons we can share is that giving back doesn’t have to be complicated. It can start right at home, using things we already have lying around.
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Recently, my daughter Scarlett, her Grammy, and I decided to take action after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of the Carolinas. With the generous help of our amazing neighbors, we packed 89 goodie bags for the kids affected by the storm. Each bag was filled with simple treasures—coloring books, crayons, bubbles, playdoh, headbands, Happy Meal toys, books, and even some leftover birthday party goodies. Our hope was to send a message to these kids that they’re not forgotten, that even a little joy can go a long way.
In addition to the goodie bags, we’re also delivering a carload of essential supplies—muck buckets, diapers, bottles, and blankets—to Vicki Thompson and her incredible team at Ronnie Thompson Ford. They’re making sure these critical items reach families in need, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their efforts.
It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, but moments like this give us a chance to pause and show our kids the importance of giving. We cleaned out closets, grabbed extra items that could brighten someone’s day, and came together as a community to make a difference. And you can do the same!
I encourage you to take this opportunity to make a small impact in your own way. Whether it’s donating to your local shelters or joining us in gathering supplies, teaching our kids to care for their fellow humans is a lesson that will last a lifetime.
This effort takes me back to when tornados hit Ringgold, GA years ago. It reminded me of how powerful it can be when a community bands together to lift each other up during tough times. That same spirit is what drives me to continue helping however I can today.
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How You Can Help:
We still have a list of items we’re hoping to gather for families in North Carolina, and we could use your support. Before donating, I encourage you to reach out to your local distribution centers or organizations to see what they specifically need for the families they are serving. Here’s a general list of items that are commonly needed, especially as colder days and nights arrive:
Household Supplies:
- Scrub brushes, dish soap, duct tape
- Buckets with lids, tin foil, to-go plates
- Household cleaning supplies (bleach, mops, window cleaner, garbage bags)
Food & Essentials:
- Peanut butter, protein bars
- Easy-open cans (Ravioli, Spaghetti O’s, Spam, soup, beans, etc.)
- Diapers, baby wipes, personal wipes
- Manual can openers, flashlights, batteries
Warmth & Comfort:
- Blankets, gloves, socks, sleeping bags, jackets/hoodies (clean)
Thank you to everyone who has already helped. Let’s show our kids how easy it is to make a difference when we come together. After all, kindness and compassion are the greatest gifts we can give.
Together, we can bring a little more light into someone’s life, even when the power goes out.
This article was created with a little help from ChatGPT, an AI tool by OpenAI.
