How it started
In December 2019, when I was 7 years old, I saw a TV segment about a book called Unselfish Kids. It made me think: what is something I can do that really helps someone?
The answer was simple. Not everyone can afford a toothbrush, toothpaste or floss, and those basics matter for health, confidence and comfort. So I started putting together bags of dental supplies to give away.
Now I'm 14, and Adam's Brushing Tree is still growing, one bag at a time.
My journey
- December 2019 · Age 7A TV segment about the book Unselfish Kids got me thinking about what a kid can really do to help. I picked something simple and useful: a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss in a bag.
- Making the bagsEach bag is packed by hand. The supplies get sorted, wrapped in a clear bag, tied with a ribbon or twist tie, and finished with a tag that has my logo. Friends pitch in on packing days.
- Giving them outI hand bags out in my community and bring them to places that serve people in need, like The Center for the Homeless and St. Margaret's House.
- Second gradeI brought a batch of "brushing trees" to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana. They planned to give them to families when they check in and keep some on hand.
- Age 9My batches got bigger. I packed one big batch that included a welcome note signed by me.
- ShippingI also mail bags to places that need these everyday essentials, so the tree can reach people outside my town.
- Today · Age 14I still pack bags with friends, and I'm building this website so more people can find me, donate supplies, and request bags.
