Local Teenager’s Charity Collecting Donations for Family of 13-Year-Old

Many people are traveling to be with loved ones this holiday weekend. A local teenager who started a toy drive several years ago is stepping up again to help a family in need. KMBC9’s Alan Shope reports on how Sammie hopes to help the family of Airen Abdullah.

For 19-year-old Sammie McGee, a life of helping others has been the greatest honor. For nearly five years, her charity, Sammie’s Toy Drive, has collected toys, gifts, needed items, and monetary donations for kids and families experiencing trauma.

Now, she’s focusing her efforts on the family of 13-year-old Airen Abdullah, who was missing for two days before being found deceased in a ravine. Police are investigating the boy’s death, but Sammie wanted to find a way to support the grieving family.

“I saw, especially the little sisters. I was like, we have to do something to help,” Sammie said.

Her organization has set up an Amazon Wish List to collect items the family could use, such as coats, shoes, clothes, and sundries. “Anything folks can do to help the grieving family, especially this time of year,” she explained. “That’s what hit me so hard. Just a couple of days before Christmas. And I spoke to the mom yesterday, and it just broke my heart.”

“It’s been amazing to see how people come together just to help each other,” Sammie added.

Alan Shope, KMBC 9 News, Louisburg. More than $500 has already been raised to help the family.