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‘Warming Families Makes Cents’ – Stafford teen helps others through her non-profit

STAFFORD — A Stafford Springs high school student has a simple mission that’s making a big impact on local families in need. “I raise money th...
stafford teen blankets

STAFFORD -- A Stafford Springs high school student has a simple mission that's making a big impact on local families in need.

"I raise money throughout the year to help heat families’ homes in the winter," said 14-year-old Anna Murphy, founder of the non-profit, Warming Families Makes Cents.

Five years ago, when she was in the 4th grade, Murphy started putting donation jars out in local businesses and approaching oil companies to lend a hand to those in need.  This issue is personal.

"When I was younger, my dad lost his job, so we struggled to pay for oil ourselves and I didn’t want other people to struggle like we did," Murphy said.

Murphy is matched with families through discreet referrals.  Each November, she hosts a 5K in Stafford to raise awareness and funds.  Her non-profit has grown in leaps and bounds.

"It’s gotten really big," she said.  "I have raised over $30,000 and helped around 40 families."

‘Warming Families Makes Cents’ – Stafford teen helps others through her non-profit

 

On December 21, Murphy will be making blankets alongside younger kids in the PASS after-school program at Stafford Elementary.  She gives these blankets to the families she helps, along with funds for heat.

"I’m very proud of her," said Kimberly Shirk, PASS Co-Coordinator who believes small children really want to give back.  "We have to teach them how to do it!  Part of our mission is to have a community tie-in and we feel it’s important that we try to foster helping your community and your fellow man with all our students here."

It means so much to Murphy to "do good" during the holiday season and all year long.

"I hope it inspires people to maybe go help someone who they feel is in need and needs help," she said.  "I feel really happy that I’m helping families in need and that they don’t have to be cold this winter."

Anyone can make a donation to Warming Families Makes Cents at any time.  Click here for more information and check out this link for the organization's Facebook page.

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