Harford Day School's 5th grade is hosting a "Books & Buddies" drive collecting books and stuffed animals for children in need.
"Our end goal is to get 50 books and buddies from our 5th grade class and give them to hospitals," as well as Anna's House, a homeless shelter for women and children, fifth-grader Rohan said.
Fifth-grader Mario started the drive because he's seen first hand how cancer can drain the joy out of childhood.
"[Reporter: Do you know how hard it was for her going through treatment?] Not really but she was really sad," Mario said in a quiet sorrowful voice.
He was talking about his friend Grace, who battled cancer for two years, and won.
"We made coloring kits for her so she could color during treatment," Mario said it helped distract her from the pain.
This inspired him to help other kids in need.
"It's nice to help the community out and give books back to the people who are trying to take their mind off treatment," Rohan said.
"To help them feel happy and be able to experience the literature that we are able to read," classmate Ben said.
The plan is to deliver the books and buddies they've collected on March 2nd, Dr. Seuss's birthday. They haven't reached their goal yet, but they're only 10 pairs away.
If you would like to help, feel free to drop off new books and stuffed animals (new items are preferred so they don't get the kids sick) at Harford Day School during the school day.
