Last Saturday I had the pleasure of meeting 16-year-old Madison Quinn. She was at Barnes and Noble in Pittsfield with author Dan Sadlowski. Sadlowski was promoting his children's book "Finding Brooklyn and the Next Great Superhero." Quinn was raising awareness and receiving donations for her self-started Strong Little Souls charity, its main purpose, as her Facebook page says, to brighten the days of sick kids by sending or delivering care packages (to them)!"
At Saturday's event, the table in front of Madison's display board featuring the countless children her care packages have made their way to thus far, was beginning to fill up with blankets, stuffed animals, children's toys and books. In particular, Sadlowski's books, because on that day, for every one of his books bought at Barnes and Noble, Dan donated one for Madison to add to her care packages.
Madison is looking to send out 100 care packages this holiday season, and is seeking donations of "anything kid-related" — toys, stuffed animals, art supplies, novelty items, etc. — as well as monetary donations to help with shipping costs. Monetary donations can be sent to Strong Little Souls, 113 Elaine Dr., Pittsfield MA 01201. If you have items to donate please message Strong Little Souls on Facebook to arrange a dropoff or pickup time for your items. All items must be sent to Madison by Dec. 7 to ensure Christmas delivery.
Other ways to contribute:
- The White Sock Company, online at thewhitesockcompany.com, donates 10-percent of every sale to Strong Little Souls. These make a great holiday gift to a family member or friend, while also contributing towards a gift for a sick child
- On Jan. 27, at the Boys and Girls Club in Pittsfield, Madison and Strong Little Souls, will be hosting a skating event for all the families Madison has helped with her care packages and for those who have supported her and her cause. Madison is in need of raffle baskets and items to raffle off, along with some snacks and treats for the families. If you would like to donate a basket of goodies, provide food for the event, or donate an item to the raffle, please contact Madison by messaging her on the Strong Little Souls Facebook Page. All funds from the raffle will go right back into Strong Little Souls so Madison can continue her efforts.
- Follow Strong Little Souls on Facebook and watch for more fun family events Madison has in the works for Strong Little Souls.
