Lynn kids’ early donation to Item Santa sets fine example

LYNN – They probably don’t know how to spell altruism yet, but three Lynn youngsters certainly know the meaning of the word.In September an envelope arrived at The Daily Item with $18 cash in it and a hand written note from some Lynn elementary School students. That $18 donation was the first donation of the season that was made to Item Santa and it was a gift from children who want to help others this holiday season.Gage Street residents Jamie and Shea Kidney, both 6, and 7-year-old Jared Discipio, who lives on Lake Avenue, earned the money Sept. 12 by selling juice boxes on Gage Street.”The kids told me they wanted to go outside and sell juice boxes,” Christine Kidney said. “I asked why they wanted to sell juice boxes and they said ‘To give money to the poor.’ I was surprised and really pleased so I told them we’d send the money to Item Santa.”Even at a young age, the youngsters, who sold juice boxes to raise money for Item Santa, know there are others less fortunate and that a donation in any amount can make the holiday season a little brighter for children in need.”Kids do get it,” Kidney said. “They really do understand that there is need out there and want to help.”A gift under the tree is much more than just a toy or warm clothing – it sends a message to the recipient that they have not been forgotten and gives them a glimmer of hope during the holiday season. Every child should have a gift to open under the tree on Christmas morning and that’s where Santa’s helpers come in – like the children on Gage Street and the faithful Item readers who, year after year, have continued opening their hearts and wallets to make sure area children have a gift to open Christmas morning.Click here to download a coupon to make a donation to Item Santa.