Kids Helping Kids

When eleven-year-old Wyeth C. began planting pumpkin seeds in Sonoma County in the spring of 2006, he had more than farming on his mind. The resourceful young man was inspired by a simple idea: he would sell his crop of giant squashes out of his parents’ backyard and donate the proceeds to those who were most in need. During the last two years, the seeds of generosity Wyeth planted have borne fruit – several thousand dollars’ worth – and benefited a variety of good causes.

The day before Thanksgiving, Wyeth and his school buddy Philip G. presented Florence Crittenton Services with more than $1,100. On Wednesday, November 26, the boys visited FCS’ Crittenton Childcare facility in Hayes Valley. It was a beautiful moment, as the boys had a chance to meet the kids receiving their generosity.

Wyeth’s and Philip’s charitable activities require a considerable amount of effort. They plant seeds in the spring, pick the pumpkins in mid-October, and, with the help of a family friend, transport the final product to San Francisco. They advertise by posting flyers in their neighborhood and via e-mail. This year, the boys made three trips to Sonoma and back to gather their crop. In all, their pumpkin sale raised $3,200.

When it came to donating this year’s proceeds, the boys wanted to support a local charity that served homeless and needy children and families. After doing research on the internet and consulting with local donors, Wyeth and Philip chose FCS. They also donated funds to the SPCA and Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans to assist on-going Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.

Florence Crittenton Services offers a big thank you to our Supporters of the Month, Wyeth and Philip, for their generosity and commitment to our community. We also thank them for showing all of us what’s possible when a little imagination, an open heart, and the right seeds come together in ending poverty one family at a time.

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