CHESTERFIELD, Va. -- Avery Long’s playroom is bustling more than Santa’s Workshop, as the ten-year-old from Chesterfield makes her list and checks it twice.
While many boys and girls hope to accumulate gifts at Christmas, Avery is giving items away.
“I think it bothers me in a way that kids aren’t getting a happy Christmas the way other kids are getting them,” says Avery.
The fourth grader at J.B. Watkins Elementary founded “Helping Other People Together” or HOP.
This Christmas, Avery is collecting items and making stockings for underprivileged children in her community.
Avery is putting together stockings to give to deserving kids
“It feels really good to give to those who really need them,” says Avery.
In addition to Legos, stuffed animals and books, Avery is collecting necessities like shampoo, scarves, mittens and hats for those who go without during wintertime.
Avery is urging her neighbors to lend a helping hand by dropping off items at her house so she can fill dozens of stockings this holiday.
“I am very grateful because I know there are people out there and they care,” says Avery.
Judy Long, who is following direction in Avery’s workshop, gushes with pride at her daughter’s thoughtful nature.
Avery and her mom work to prepare the gifts
“She is definitely organized. She knows what she wants to get and how she wants to put it together. I’m along for the ride,” Judy says. “You can put something together and make a difference and it doesn’t matter how old you are.”
Avery Long, a little girl with the big heart, defining what the season of giving truly means.
“Basically everyone can make the difference in helping someone,” says Avery.
Each one of her stockings comes stuffed to the brim with lots of love.
“If you help them they get a Merry Christmas and you get a Merry Christmas that is a nice feeling to have inside of you.”
Avery will be accepting donations at her house located at 12413 Queensgate Road in Chesterfield until December 16. Avery’s stockings will be distributed through the Communities in Schools organization.
If have any questions about how to donate to Avery’s H.O.P. Together you can reach her mother, Judy, by clicking here.
If you know someone who you think is a perfect fit for the“Heroes Among Us” segment, click here to email Reporter Greg McQuade.
