19-Year-Old Kenneth Isaacson Brings Christmas Cheer to Fellow Foster Children
Dollar General’s mission of Serving Others is often exhibited by the customers who walk through the stores’ doors, and such is the case with 19-year-old Kenny Isaacson of Dearborn Heights, Michigan. Though not much older than a kid himself, Kenny brings the joys of Christmas to those in need, and his goal is to make a difference for other kids while also helping households that are struggling financially.
“I was an orphan and in foster care with no one to spend Christmas with, and I don’t want other children to experienced that,” said Kenny. “While living in a group home and working in fast food, I went to a Dollar General, buying what toys I could, and on Christmas morning delivered the toys to kids at a local hospital.”
Born in Russia, Kenny spent the first 14 months of life in an orphanage before being adopted and brought to America. At age 15, he entered the Michigan Foster Care System and in 2018, while living in a group home, Kenny decided to start helping other kids at Christmas. This year is Kenny’s fourth holiday season as ‘Kid Santa’ – purchasing, wrapping, and distributing toys to more than 200 children throughout the state with the help of volunteers. And while Kenny solicits donations to help the cause, he also works two jobs, dedicating a full day’s pay each week towards gifts for others.
After hearing Kenny’s story and how he often shops at Dollar General for toys and gifts, and to recognize his spirit of Serving Others, the Company presented Kenny with a $500 Dollar General gift card to help fulfill kids’ Christmas wish lists.
“Kenny’s mission perfectly aligns with Dollar General’s and it’s heartwarming to hear that someone as young as Kenny is able to help so many others,” said Sara Duke, Dollar General District Manager in Michigan. “He is an inspiration, and we are humbled to play a small role in bringing joy to others on Christmas morning.”
To help support ‘Kid Santa’ and provide gifts for children this holiday season visit his Facebook page.