10-year-old launches annual clothing drive for homeless

By Jessica Hardy

DEER ISLE–A 10-year-old Deer Isle resident is collecting clothing for people who are homeless.

Alexsa Shepard and her dog Marge with a box of donated clothes, part of her annual drive to help those who are homeless. Photo by Jessica Hardy.

For the fourth year in a row, Alexsa Shepard, a fifth grader, said she has simply wanted to help people trying to stay warm this winter. She has been collecting hats, mittens and other warm clothing.

“I see people on the side of the street and it is cold. It's the time of year where it’s cold,” Alexsa said.

In the past, Alexsa has donated to Alfred’s Christmas Fund, established in 2009 in memory of Alfred Clough, and the Emmaus Center in Ellsworth. This year she’s supporting Families First Community Center in Ellsworth.

Her clothing drive started after having a conversation with her mother, Audreyauna Shepard, about helping others.

“Kids need to grow up knowing the importance of helping others.” Audreyauna Shepard said. “It is important with the rise of homelessness.”

Clothing will be collected until Dec. 19. To donate clothing, contact Audreyauna Shepard through her Facebook page.