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12 year old fights for the homeless

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I would like to convey a feel good story to you about a 12 year old child at a time when negativity seems to reign supreme in reference to media attention. From a city that was just voted the “worst city in Mass ”  
by www.RoadSnacks.net  New Bedford raised a child that has been a huge positive inspiration on a city with selfless acts of helping the homeless. I would have to say his infectiousness couldn’t have had better timing during a time of high homelessness rates and negative backlash on the homeless themselves. What some fail to realize is behind the stigma of a homeless person is the face of a human being who has an untold story, and a story unknown isn’t worthy of judgment.

The reason why children are so easily lovable is mostly because of the innocence they convey through their conscious that hasn’t yet been corrupted.  A consciousness much like Terrell’s. Terrell is a 12 year old child who lives in the Temple Landing developments formerly known as United Front Homes.  United Front over the years has had its share of issues and negative press and is a rock throw away from a jail called the Bristol House of Corrections located directly across the street, A place that has experienced many shootings and several homicides but a place that also has many untold positive community based efforts. 

Even though Terrell on a daily basis is surrounded by such realities he still manages to let his golden heart lead his actions. I was over a friend’s house when she asked me to look out of the window at what this child was doing. When I did I seen this preteen that I’ve never seen before with a homemade stand and a sign attached that read “Buy bracelet, 50 cents, donations will be given to the homeless, God bless you.”  I went out there to give him a 5 dollar donation and asked him why he is doing this and who thought of the idea?  He went on to explain that the idea was his own because he seen a homeless person in need and wanted to help. A week went by and I again seen Terrell on the same corner selling bracelets. This time I went to the store and bought some soda, water and ice and went back to donate it to him to sell. It was a very hot and humid Saturday afternoon so at the same time I bought myself a box of freeze pops. I pulled up to give Terrell the beverages and offered him a freeze pop when he responded with a "no thank you." I asked him again and he respectfully repeated himself. I then asked him why he didn't want one? It is hot. Terrell responded with “I just want there to be enough for you.”  I was in awe. It was then a New Bedford police officer drove up and asked what Terrell was selling. When he learned why he was selling the bracelets he asked to buy 2 for his children. I asked Terrell if I can take his photo and put what he is doing on Facebook to get people to come over to buy some bracelets. To my surprise the post went viral with shares, likes and positive comments.

I thought, how can this child be rewarded for his selfless good deed?  And this is why I created this GoFundMe page. The money raised will be used to reward Terrell's selflessness. With a new school year approaching 
Terrell and his 10 year old brother will get school clothes, school supplies and winter coats, gloves and hats so they know our community supports Terrell's efforts. Anything extra will be utilized for Terrell to continue his mission gto help the homeless. 

Thank you!!

Organizer

Michael Jo Santos
Organizer
New Bedford, MA

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