The Generous Heart of Samuel Love BY IMANI JOSEPH, KENWOOD ACADEMY
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amuel Love is an inspiration to all kids trying to make a difference. At a mere 12, the Murray Language Academy student has done something that most adults over the age of 30 have not – he gives to those who are less fortunate. His love has been collecting toys since 2012 and he has given away almost 15,000 to approximately 3,500 children who are victims of poverty and natural disasters that have destroyed their homes. He’s been all across the country visiting cities following these tragic events, in hopes of bringing some joy to a young persons’ life. His inspiration for starting the drive was simply to help people. “Basically [for the] kids who can’t get toys for Christmas and stuff, we go around and gather stations after tornadoes and floods.” Love recently visited Arkansas and South Carolina to pass out toys. Traveling across the country and donating thousands of toys isn’t a one-man job. “My dad and my mom are there to help out. Some sponsors like Studio Movie Grill, Walmart, and Dance Club... set up bins in their stores to have people donate.” The toys that Love receives are given to him by his sponsors Walgreens, Sam’s Club, local schools and generous citizens. Helping hundreds of kids has made Love very humble and wise for his years. He said he was touched by the reactions of kids for his actions. 24 TRUE STAR JR.
“Some were just shocked knowing they were getting helped,” he said. “And some actually cried.” Although he really enjoys being a young philanthropist, Love aspires to be a Major League Baseball player. He loves baseball because he’s been playing since he was 4-yearsold and is surrounded by a baseball family. His favorite video game is Call of Duty: Black OPs 3 because he loves the thrill of risky situations. If his baseball dreams don’t happen, Love plans on becoming a veterinarian because he has a soft spot for animals.