This Idaho teen, diagnosed with a rare ovarian cancer a few years ago, is a picture of generosity.
Emma Allred, a cancer survivor who dreamed of helping the homeless, chose to use her wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation to hold a food drive.
The 13-year-old’s event, which was held earlier this month, attracted hundreds of people. The incredible turnout is a testament to Emma’s giving spirit.
“Of all the things, despite her siblings trying to get her to do other things, she chose to help the homeless,” Emma’s mother, Nina Allred, told local news outlet KMVT.
Crowds showed up to the drive at a park in the city of Twin Falls and donated over 13,000 pounds of goods for food pantries, Inside Edition reported. Local organizations got in on the action as well, with the fire department and a grocery store, among other groups, contributing to the drive.
Participants enjoyed some fun at the event, like face painting, cotton candy and a barbecue.
Emma, who’s currently in remission, was shocked by the enormous support she received from her community.
“She was overwhelmed but very appreciative of the community-wide support,”Julie Thomas, the Eastern Idaho regional manager for the state’s Make-A-Wish Foundation, told The Huffington Post. “She is extremely shy and humble; she kept wondering why everyone wanted their photo taken with her.”
Thomas says that spreading kindness is simply part of who Emma is.
“She just wants to help others!” Thomas explained. “She said there are so many other less fortunate people that she wants to just help them out in any way she can!”