Family Focus: 8-Year-Old Collects School Supplies For Others

An 8-year-old Charlotte girl is heading up a campaign to get school supplies to children who need them.

Jane Harrell said she got the idea after her parents took her to Urban Ministries.

“My mom and dad were telling me how many kids didn't have a home and I wanted to help them, so I knew that most of the kids didn't have school supplies,” she said. “So I decided I would collect school supplies for them.”

Jane made several lists of supplies needed and took them to Christ Episcopal Church, which she attends, and asked other members for help.

“It all just started pouring in,” she said.

Deanna Chillemi, site coordinator for Communities in Schools, said Jane's effort will save the day for many students at Rama Road Elementary.

“What Jane has done for us is so great,” she said. “Every child here will start out with the school supplies that they need to be successful.”

Jane collected all kinds of school supplies, including papers, pencils and crayons.

“It’s disappointing to them when they're looking around, seeing the children that have everything and they don't have anything cool and fun to start the year out … to really get them excited about school,” Jane said.

While the effort took a lot of time and planning, Jane said it was well worth it.

“It’s hard work, but it makes you feel really good at the end.”