KIDS SERVING KIDS

“Kids Serving Kids” was formed 10 years ago by Samara Wilson (now 24 years old) whose inspiration came from her talks with the late Dr. C. DeLores Tucker (her great-aunt) and further encouraged by seeing her great-uncle, Dr. William Tucker, who has been hosting a Children’s Christmas Dinner Party for disadvantaged children for over 23 years, serving over 3,800 children at one time.

Samara had wondered for several years how she and her best friend could help children less fortunate than themselves until this past summer she heard that over 15 million children went hungry every year in America.  Samara said, “I am so tired of hearing everyone talking about homeless children and I don’t just want to talk, I need to help do something.  I feel blessed to have my family that helps my mom take care of me and wants other kids to know that there is hope even when things look bad”. She then invited some of her friends to join her in asking businesses and people they knew to donate items. Each participating member of the group was asked to collect at least one box of food per shelter/family visit. 

The first project was held in honor of National Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week in 2011. The group of young leaders delivered food to the Lutheran Settlement Home for homeless mothers and children, played games with the children and gave out prizes, toiletries, new clothes and other donated items.  They also shared a positive message of hope with the children.  

This year, “Kids Serving Kids” continues to serve families in the Philadelphia area.  Although Samara is not directly involved in the distribution as often due to college studies outside of the city, she continues to serve the community by distributing feminine needs to homeless women on the streets.