Local boys ask for Red Cross donations instead of birthday prese - ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MI

(11/21/12) - When three Mid-Michigan boys were planning their birthday parties, they had a great idea.

Rather than ask for toys and clothes, they asked their guests to do something special.

The boys were touched by the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy. They did think about all the things they would like for their birthdays - all three were born in November. But they decided being unselfish was a better way to celebrate.

"I was absolutely amazed that three boys at that age would give up all their birthday gifts," said Jeanette Lake of the American Red Cross, Flint Chapter.

"We sent invitations saying, 'Don't buy presents, just donate money,'" said Jackson Foguth.

"These people really need it and I already have enough stuff," said Jacob Matras.

"They needed stuff that's more important than the stuff we needed," said Lewis Walterhouse.

They described their friends reactions very simply. "They were shocked," Jacob said.

After recovering, friends and family members came through - donating cash and writing checks. Then the boys took the money to the Genesee-Lapeer chapter of the American Red Cross.

"Hopefully it help a lot of people," Lewis said.

The Red Cross says the $1,000 will be put to good use.

"It will help buy food, clothing, shelter and medicine," Lake said.

"Just think, if you were in their position, what would you want other people to do?" Jackson said.

"That is so much money. I'm so proud of all of them and their friends," said Natalie Foguth, Jackson's mother.

The boys hope they help a lot of people.