Inside Carrie Bond Elementary School in Englewood, a heartwarming act of generosity is unfolding, spearheaded by a compassionate 7-year-old boy from Tinley Park, Illinois. As he approaches his birthday, Alex Anning has chosen a unique way to celebrate.
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Inspired by the idea that helping others could be enjoyable, Alex decided to organize a community food distribution event rather than hosting a traditional birthday party.
This young philanthropist’s decision is particularly timely, as it comes when many families face uncertainty due to a lapse in SNAP benefits caused by the recent government shutdown.
With support from his mother, Alex is distributing grocery bags filled with essentials such as milk, bread, canned goods, and desserts to those in need, with no questions asked.
For more on this story, see our previous coverage: “Tinley Park Boy to Hold Chicago Food Giveaway for 8th Birthday.”
PREVIOUS COVERAGE | Tinley Park boy to hold Chicago food giveaway for 8th birthday
A line of people could be seen patiently waiting stretched outside the school’s front doors.
Linda Eastes said she is a SNAP recipient and is beyond grateful for the act of kindness.
“We’re grateful that a 7-year-old is providing for us out here who are hungry,” Eastes said.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the loving guidance of Alex’s mom Kymbria Young.
“I am so proud of Alexander. My heart is just so full of joy. He’s actually inspiring me,” she said.
Anning and his mom have a non-profit called Season to Soar, which helps Chicago-area residents from underserved communities.
“Alex is just driven. He’s driven by compassion. He saw someone in need and that is his motivation. He’s not doing it for attention or for himself; he’s doing it for the good of others,” Young said.
