Supporting Hurricane Relief Efforts: Our Kids Can Help, Too! Here's How! by Ann Marie Patitucci


Like citizens across the U.S., my heart goes out to everyone affected by Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma. When Hurricane Harvey was wreaking havoc on Texas, I was discussing the hurricane and its effects with my sons. The boys were talking about how they wanted to do something to help. They came up with an idea: have a lemonade stand and donate the profits to hurricane relief efforts. I couldn’t have been prouder. The boys held their lemonade stand on a Sunday afternoon. They raised $40. I asked them to put into words why they felt moved to do something for strangers so far away. Here are their responses:

  • Youngest son, age 7: “People need money to buy supplies. We should help them. It’s nice to help others.”
  • Oldest son, age 11: “I’ve been watching the news and YouTube. I see how bad it is, how it can destroy houses and take away pets and family members. I just want to help give back everything people lost.”

We’ve decided to donate the money they raised to the Humble ISD Education Foundation. “The Humble ISD Foundation will work with the school district in meeting school-related needs as a result of Hurricane Harvey such as school supplies for students whose homes were flooded and replacing school items damaged in the flooding such as books and technology," according to the State College Area District's website

We should never underestimate our kids and we should include them whenever we can, because they have so much to offer.

Get more information about the Humble Independent School District, the Help Humble Campaign or make a donationThis video is longer than 30 seconds, but we think it's worth it.

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Elisa Schmitz
This is awesome, Ann Marie Gardinier Halstead ! I love how you're instilling your kind and thoughtful values in your children. You're all amazing! ❤️
Ann Marie Patitucci
Thank you, Elisa. You know, sometimes you feel like an epic failure as a parent and sometimes, something like this happens to remind you that what you've been saying and doing just might be working. <3
Donna John
What a wonderful thing your kids did, Ann Marie Gardinier Halstead! You must be a proud mama. Houston thanks you!
Ann Marie Patitucci
Thanks, Donna John ! I will pass that on to the boys. They'll be thrilled to hear that someone from Houston is appreciative!
Gina Pomering
Great job boys! Anytime you help is makes a difference!

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