An Abbotsford boy recently celebrated his fifth birthday with a special request for his guests.
Keegan asked that, rather than bringing gifts, guests bring toonies to his party at a local indoor playground.
“One toonie went towards a gift for Keegan and the other was designated for a charity of Keegan’s choice, which was Matthew’s House,” said his mom, Saranna.
Matthew’s House provides quality care to children with special needs so that their parents can get a much-needed break.
Keegan met a boy at StrongStart – an early-learning drop-in program – whose brother visits Matthew’s House.
When his parents asked him who he wanted to help, he narrowed it down to two things – either animals or children.
Keegan loves animals and often chooses to support the SPCA but this time around he thought of children who live with complex care needs.
“Keegan has met the boy’s brother and so when we talked about a charity that helps children, it brought Matthew’s House to mind,” Saranna said.
Saranna said that they try to instill acts of kindness in Keegan and this was one creative way to make a difference and to give to something that had a personal connection.
The birthday party raised $50 for Matthew’s House.
“He feels pretty proud of himself,” Saranna said. “We’re proud of him, too, that he is willing to include others and do something nice for other children.”
Laura Ullock, resource development assistant for Matthew’s House, is always moved when she is introduced to children who make a difference for other kids.
“What Keegan did was so generous. It is so wonderful to see children making a difference for other families,” she said. “We hope others will follow his initiative and remember the children at Matthew’s House in this unique way!”
Those wishing to pledge their birthday, anniversary or other event to support families who visit Matthew’s House can visit mattshouse.ca/get-involved/partner-with-us/ for more information.