Beacon Herald carrier gives back for 10th birthday
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Everett Weaver’s 10th birthday was approaching, and he wanted to give back, but he wasn’t sure how.
The idea came to him one evening at dinner when his mom suggested he finish his meal, reminding him that some people in the world don’t have any food.
Instead of birthday presents, Everett decided he would collect non-perishable food and donate it to Stratford’s House of Blessing.
“He doesn’t like seeing people go hungry or poor,” his grandma, Susan Shurrie, said. “That was the gist of it. It was his idea.”
Everett, a Beacon Herald carrier for the last year, did what he does best, going door to door and placing letters at homes on the streets where his parents and grandmother live. The letters detailed his plan, and the community responded.
“Everybody knows me (there), so they knew I was coming,” he said. “Everybody said yes.”
Everett collected 150 items, some of which came from his U10 hockey team.
“We are pleased to see our younger generation is learning there are people who are struggling in their community, and they can do something in their own communities such as a food drive to help their neighbours in need,” House of Blessing executive director Theresa McMurray said. “It is a big deal. We try to celebrate them as much as we can and any way we can.”
McMurray said she hopes Everett’s gesture will inspire other youths to do something similar.
“His goal and commitment to helping people in his own community is being noticed and is being celebrated right now through our food banks,” she added.
Everett’s mom, Shannon Weaver, said her oldest son has always been selfless. Some of his teachers have likened him to a grandpa wanting to take care of others, she added.
“He does that all the time,” she said. “It’s a great trait to have, but it can be a fault as well. We’ve tried to instil that into our kids to always give back and think of others before themselves.”
With spring in full swing, Everett said his next goal is to put on some gloves and clean up trash in the neighbourhoods where he spends most of his time. He’d also like to collect and donate food again around Thanksgiving.
“He’s ready to help,” Shurrie said.
Everett did get some presents, though the birthday bounty was scaled back this year. It didn’t bother the paperboy with a big heart.
“Donate food and get presents?” he said. “Bonus.”
cosmith@postmedia.com
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