“I bring gently loved stuffed animals to donate at this time of the year,” Aerin said. “I collect them throughout the whole year. This makes me feel very happy. I know the toys are going to a happy place. Some other kids will love them.”
Aerin stated the reason she began donating is, “it turns out I’ve been getting too many toys.”
Heidi Gardner, Aerin’s mother, added, “Every year, oh gosh, we bring in six or eight bags probably. They get gently loved all year long in her bedroom. Come December we get into negotiations about which ones (are donated).”
Aerin’s generosity extends beyond just Toys for Kids, as she has her own small business – Earrings by Aerin – and the proceeds from the sales of her earrings are donated to the Corrine T. Smith Animal Center. Prices are $5 for one pair, two for $8 or three pair for $10.
“We just love to spread the joy,” Aerin said. “Each year my goal to sell earrings is $500.”
Heidi added, “Every year around Christmas we donate about $500, but sometimes is takes us until February.”
Stacee Hetzel with Toys for Kids is impressed by Aerin’s spirit of giving at such a young age.
“I think she’s a pretty remarkable young lady,” Hetzel said. “She’s done this several years now and she takes it upon herself to do it. That’s pretty cool. Not a lot of younger kids understand this whole thing but she definitely gets it.”
