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Helpings Hands: Kids Give Back

The summer at Bethlehem Lutheran Church is all hands on deck as dozens of youths prepare meals for those in need. After the meals are prepared, the students write letters to accompany them. A student read aloud, “I hope this meal helps. We are trying our hardest. From, Kids Give Back.” The nonprofit is called “Kids Give Back,” founded in 2019 by Denise Gavilan.

“We make volunteering meaningful and fun,” Gavilan said. “Our goal is to inspire them to continue volunteering.” Through this unique program, children learn valuable life lessons while staying busy during the summer.

“They said, ‘Ms. Denise, we had a lemonade stand last night. Could you use this money to buy food for people who need it?'” Gavilan recalled. “I still tear up when I tell that story.”

Cooking isn’t the only activity the youth engage in. They also create gifts for hospitals and animal shelters too.

Joel Bassam and Easterns Automotive Group wanted to surprise “Kids Give Back” with a 7News Helping Hand.

“We work closely with Helping Hands to help organizations just like yourself,” Bassam said. “We were touched by what you guys do. You do a little bit of everything, and we love it. We want to support your cause by donating $2,000 so you guys can keep helping all the families that you guys help.” Gavilan told Bassam the money will help fund future projects.

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