BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — A brother and sister are trying to inspire others to give back this holiday season, but a bit differently. Adrionna Ramos, 10, and Noah Ramos, 13, created the WOW, or Words of Warmth, donation drive to collect gloves, scarves and other winter wear for the homeless in the Battle Creek area.
The duo, who has been volunteering at the Haven of Rest Ministries for several years, said they wanted to do something on their own this year. They said they're hoping to not only donate the gift of warmth though clothing but also through words, by having people attach a personalized card to each donated item.
“There’s lots of homeless people here, and we just thought if we do good for the community, then it might get a little bit better," Adrionna told FOX 17.
Adrionna and Noah Ramos on a billboard in the Battle Creek area.
The pair already has billboards up in the area encouraging people to donate, and they are working to encourage schools in the area to get on board with the idea. They said several schools have already signed on to help.
Noah showed FOX 17 one of the cards attached to a hat that had been donated: "This one says ‘I hope you like the hat, I hope it keeps you warm through the cold nights. Everyday is a new day. You will do great things.’”
Noah said he was bothered to learn of the thousands of homeless people living in Michigan, children among them. But above all, he said he feels everybody deserves a chance.
“They’re humans too and so, whether they were born poor or they didn’t make correct decisions when they were older, whatever it is, I honestly think they should get all the opportunities we get," he said.
More information can be found on the Words of Warmth Facebook page.
