Ten-year-old Sarah Byford is once again giving back to the community.
Known for always trying to help others through her fundraising, the future Grade 6 Taylor Elementary student, with the help of her family, collected school supplies this week, but not for herself.
It’s for the Salvation Army’s Back to School backpack program.
“I like doing this,” said Sarah as she began to search for items.
“You can spend up to $200,” said her mom, Amy, in setting a limit.
“Such a gifted inspiration to us, with her heart to serve the community,” said the area’s Salvation Army executive director, Jared Braun. “All of her hard work and partnering with organizations, like ourselves, to share her love and joy. It’s been an encouragement to us.”
Close to 70 backpacks have already been filled with essential school supplies thanks to donations by the 10-year-old and others in the community.
The eventual goal is to reach 100 or more.
“Food bank clients and others in the community that might not have the means to provide those things for their children as they go back to school can apply for a backpack.”
“With this, every kid can return to school with the right supplies and feel supported,” added Braun. “They’re not feeling left out amongst their classmates.”
As the 10-year-old was paying for the items at the cash register, her generosity led to another act of kindness in an unexpected way.
Sarah had a few more items in the shopping cart than her pre-set limit.
As Amy prepared to pay the difference, a lady next in line, without hesitation, offered to take care of the rest.
“I am so proud of you and you’re not even my kid,” she told Sarah.
Donations of new school supplies can be dropped off at the Salvation Army’s Thrift Store on 100 Avenue.
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