Children all over the world are getting excited about waking up to presents on Christmas morning. While it can be a magical time for kids, it is also a great opportunity for parents to teach their children about the importance of giving.
Fairview Elementary in Scott County is one of 28 schools that receives presents from Mission of Hope. Each student can pick out two toys, which may be the only gifts they get this season, but there is a greater life lesson learned.
Research shows that children who learn to give have a higher self esteem and tend to be more successful in life.
"The gift of giving I think is the greatest gift of all so it's a foundation aspect of what we do," said Emmette Thompson, executive director of Mission of Hope.
Teachers at Fairview have noticed a difference since Mission of Hope has been making deliveries to their school.
"What we have seen as a result of this is students giving among themselves making cards for those in need in our community," teacher Gretchen Stephens said.
Several of the children picked out presents for their siblings who aren't old enough to go to school yet. Others, simply wanted to thank everyone who donated to make the day of hope possible.
"They spend all their money on us and they didn't have to," one 7th grader said.
It made for a magical event, not only for now, but years to come. One day, these students hope to donate to Mission of Hope themselves.
"I can't be more heartfelt of gratitude than I am right now, and I'm so grateful the community games this worthy of all they do and the way they support us," Thompson said.