First-grader raises money for the homeless

Abram Keel, 6, with Bridge volunteers Jackie Snow, Dani Chaffin and Terry Lynn Tito.

A Cortez first-grader decided to give an early Christmas present to the Bridge Emergency Shelter this year.

Abram Keel, 6, put a cardboard box labeled “Help the Homeless” in his front yard during the shelter’s annual yard sale fundraiser. He asked passersby to donate 5 cents. By the end of the day, he had raised about $53, which his grandmother Deb Keel, a regular volunteer at the shelter, delivered for him.

Abram said many people were happy to drop money in the box.

“It said ‘5 cents,’ but a lot of people gave a dollar,” he said.

Abram said he wanted the money to help homeless people find homes.

Laurie Knutson, executive director of the Bridge, thanked him for his contribution, saying it was “sweet.”

The Bridge accepts donations of money and goods such as blankets, nonperishable food and clothing year-round. To find out more, go to thebridgeshelter.org or call 970-565-9808.

Nov 25, 2017
A new generation of helpers
Oct 25, 2017
Cortez council plans nonprofit grants for 2018
Sep 28, 2017
United Way honors contributors at Breakfast of Champions event
Jul 27, 2017
Cortez council approves employee discounts
Jun 23, 2017
Bridge Shelter reaches challenge grant goal