Instead of gifts for his birthday, a California boy is asking for supplies to donate to charity. For the sixth year in a row, ten-year-old Sergio Mairena is collecting essential supply donations for the Cope Family Center in Napa, which provides resources and support for parents in need. He’s asked those who were planning on giving him a gift for his 11th birthday to instead buy baby formula, wipes, and outlet covers to donate.
"I’m excited because I know I’m making a difference," Sergio explains. "At my school they say any act of kindness that you put out will come back to you in some way." Cope program manager Colleen Masi says Sergio’s donations are a great help to the organization. "These are basic essentials that these families need,” says Masi. “And the costs are rising, so having them available through our safety net services is a huge help to families."
Last year, Sergio donated around 25 boxes filled with donations to Cope and this year he hopes to increase that number to 35. "I actually jump up and down forty times every time I see a box," says an excited Sergio.
Source: KTVU
Photo Credit: Getty