Local girl donates $2,000 of toys to Salvation Army

ALPENA, Mich. — We all have our favorite ways to spend time. Hobbies help us recharge and refocus on ourselves. But one Alpena girl has put her hobby to work in service of others.

10–year–old Jacquelyn loves her dog, LEGO, and science.

But she said her oldest passion is baking sweet treats.

“I’ve been baking since I was 4 or 3 years old. And I just like making stuff for my family and my neighbors.”

Earlier this year, Jacquelyn started selling her baked goods around Alpena. As her profits climbed, she considered how her earnings could help other families. And slowly, a plan came together…

“Every kid should have a present on Christmas morning… We didn’t think we were donating to Salvation Army. Then we thought about it and decided to do that.”

Like a mini–Santa-Claus, Jacquelyn spent her summer— and every cent of her profits— buying toys and games for other kids to enjoy this holiday.

On October 29, the Alpena Salvation Army had to send a truck to pick up the $2,000 worth of donations from her house.

SA Major Prezza Morrison said Jacquelyn’s efforts blew her away.

“I was really shocked and surprised. First, because we haven’t seen something like this at the Alpena post in years. Second, because this young person used money she could have spent on anything else to help other children.”

Morrison said the toys will join other donations in this winter’s free holiday toy shop for families in need.

As for Jacquelyn, she has just one wish for the kids in those families.

“I hope you have a very happy Christmas!”