COLORADO SPRINGS — Age is just a number when you're giving the gift of hope during the holidays, which is true for a local 8-year-old girl.
Apryl Twaddell, from Fairplay, told her mom she didn't want presents under the Christmas tree this season, instead she wanted to give back to the community. On Monday, she and her family turned into Santa helpers and drove around Colorado Springs to help those less fortunate.
"I said, 'mom, I want to help the people who need it most for Christmas,' and she said 'we'll do it.'"
Her mom, Loretta, says Apryl used her savings to spread holiday cheer.
"She took money from her piggy bank and we matched her. It was probably about $400, and we donated it, and we're still donating," said Loretta. "I was very blessed because most kids want toys."
The family gave away toiletries, food, blankets and cleaning supplies. One of their stops was to The Place, a local organization that provides shelter, housing and support to homeless youth in the community.
"She was able to bring two apartment moving kits, so that means that two youth, that are going to move into an apartment, will have supplies, like dishes, plungers, soap," said Petersen. "Having supplies to be able to work with youth on a day-to-day basis is incredibly necessary."
The nonprofit provides housing, shelter and support to homeless youth. It has helped 7,500 teenagers and young adults since starting 20 years ago. For the organization, the donation was nothing short of a Christmas miracle.
"When you have a young girl like this be able to help youth in need, it really means a lot to our organization," said Petersen.
"I feel good, because we're doing god's work, and that's what matters, is love," said Apryl.
Apryl and her family drove around town, and also gave $20 and fleece blankets to homeless in the community.
