Engeldinger puts others first

Brittany Engeldinger celebrated her birthday by hosting a food drive. Pictured with Brittany are several of the residents of the Sunshine Center Apartments, where she distributed the food.

By Kelly Moore Staff Writer

Brittany Engeldinger, a 9-year-old from Anacoco, decided to help people in need instead of asking things for herself this year.

Engeldinger asked her parents to celebrate her birthday this year with a "food drive" party for the less fortunate. Engeldinger's birthday is not until the first week in January, but she celebrated it on Nov. 11 with a fundraiser held at Skate Palace in Leesville.

She asked that those attending to bring three non-perishable food items. If the food was brought, the children could skate for free.

In preparation for the party, Engeldinger handed out fliers and even called into a radio station, letting everyone know that they could skate in exchange for the food.

According to Kevin and Paula, Brittany's parents, there were over 100 people who attended and donated to the cause.

"Brittany wanted to do this last year, but we did not have time. She came up with the idea all on her own," Paula said.

When the Engeldingers decided to have the drive, they contacted the Vernon Community Action Council in Leesville and it was decided that the foods raised would be distributed at the Sunshine Center Apartments, where low income senior citizens and individuals with disabilities live.

When Brittany and her parents brought the groceries to the apartment complex, they were greeted by some of the residents living there.

Along with the nonperishable food items, several turkeys and hams were also distributed. Merchants and Farmers Bank, along with Market Basket, donated monies and groceries to help with the project.

Through Brittany's unselfish act, many residents had a joyful Thanksgiving dinner and will have more food in their pantries during the winter months.