CHATHAM — Most children put together a Christmas list at this time of the year, but not 12-year-old Samuel Love.
The sixth-grader is instead organizing a toy drive that will bring gifts to children across Illinois and in South Carolina.
He started his annual disaster relief toy drive in 2012 to help brighten Christmas Day for children in New York City who were affected by Hurricane Sandy. Last year he was able to collect more than 2,000 toys and distribute them to children in Arkansas affected by devastating tornadoes.
This year the goal is to collect 10,000 toys.
“It makes me feel good knowing that I’m doing something bigger than just me. I’m helping other people who need it,” he said.
Samuel said that he’s young, people shouldn't underestimate him.
“Young people can do big things,” he said.
He grew up volunteering, so giving back is nothing new, he said. But after watching the coverage on Hurricane Sandy he decided to expand his volunteer efforts.
Samuel wants adults to know that he and many of his peers pay attention to the news and they actually care about helping others.
In Illinois, the toys are going to Coal City, Robbins and Fairdale. Both Fairdale and Coal City experienced tornados this year. The rest will go to three cities in South Carolina: Myrtle Beach, Columbus and Charleston. Some of the state experienced flooding this year.
He plans to continue the annual toy drive and is working toward making it a nonprofit organization. The ultimate goal is to collect even more toys throughout the year and send them to more children.
“I just want everyone to have a good Christmas, even if they are going through hard times,” he said.
Samuel is collecting toys through Dec. 18. People can also donate through Paypal and use the email address Samandsantatoydrive@gmail.com.
Drop off locations are:
• Studio Movie Grill, 210 W. 87th St.
• NBC Chicago, 454 N. Columbus, Chicago
• Josephine’s Cooking, 436 E. 79th St.
• Sam’s Club in Lansing, Evergreen and Matteson
• Murray World Language Academy, 5335 S Kenwood Ave.
There will be a toy drive at his grandmother’s restaurant, Josephine’s Cooking, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 12 He’ll be at Murray School at 9 a.m. Dec. 18.
Samuel will leave for South Carolina Dec. 18 to give away the toys.
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