Emma (PHOTO: KMVT)
TWIN FALLS, Id. – An Idaho teen is touching hearts across the country thanks to a selfless act to help others in need.
Emma Allred was diagnosed with ovarian cancer when she was 10. Now 13, she has undergone surgery three times with a fourth one coming up later this year.
She was recently granted a wish by Idaho Make A Wish Foundation.
A lot of teens would go somewhere special or even meet someone famous. Emma’s wish was something the Foundation says happens about one in 100 wishes.
“My wish is to feed the homeless,” Emma told KMVT.
“Of all the things, despite her siblings trying to get her to do other things, she chose to help the homeless,” said Nina Allred, Emma’s mother.
The teen said the decision wasn’t easy as she considered some of the ideas from her siblings and parents. Ultimately, she found the guidance to make her decision.
“I asked the lord in prayer and he did. Basically, he told me to feed the homeless.”
“It’s incredibly unique and we are so thrilled that somebody is as kind and generous as Emma to want to give to others instead of have the wish granted for herself,” said Brenda Vogt, the director of program services for Idaho’s Make A Wish.
As the word spread throughout her community, donation after donation rolled into Twin Falls City Park to make Emma’s wish come true.
As of Monday afternoon, residents and businesses donated 13,148 pounds of food that will go to local food pantries.
“I can’t believe this is happening, this is amazing,” Emma said.
“She’s so selfless and really really was dedicated to giving back to her community,” said Sarah Shinn, the president and CEO of Make A Wish Idaho.
