FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WMSV) - WSMV4′s Surprise Squad blessed and surprised another unsuspecting Middle Tennessean who is always going above and beyond to give back to her community.
This month, the Surprise Squad’s Holly Thompson headed to Franklin, Tennessee to surprise the founder of an organization rooted in kindness and love.
One suitcase at a time, Love on Wheels helps brighten the life of more than 2,000 Tennessee children entering the foster care system each year.
Volunteers with the nonprofit organization deliver suitcases and duffle bags they pack with much needed essentials for the state’s foster children.
“We always pack underwear and socks... We pack blankets. We pack care items, so hygiene products to help them start and end their day, and we try to pack toys or activities for the students, books and art supplies, school supplies, backpacks and just other things that sort of ease them into their day and their new home,” said Love on Wheels lead coordinator Allison Fuller.
“Any time a child comes into foster care, that’s another level of trauma, and so when they receive these gifts, and they know that these things belong to them, then they feel a sense of comfort,” Fuller added. “They feel that there are people that care.”
Each child also receives a handwritten note of love and encouragement.
“We receive calls from guidance counselors, the child protective services, DCS or any foster agency and foster families,” Fuller said.
The organization relies on donations, and that’s where WSMV4′s Surprise Squad stepped up to help.
Thanks to our Surprise Squad sponsor, Bart Durham Injury Law, Blair Durham helped Thompson surprise Love on Wheels with desperately needed items, including suitcases, games, socks, blankets, school supplies and more.
The woman who started it all, founder Dr. Kathleen Kunkel, said she had no idea this surprise was coming and was forever grateful.
“Gosh, thank you so much, I am just absolutely blown away. Oh my gosh. Thank you so much. Oh my gosh, you will bless so many children across our entire state, thank you so much,” Kunkel said. “It’s not about me; it’s about the kiddos. Foster kids need our love and our help. I am shocked!”
“These kids have nothing, and they’re blown away by the smallest of things, and they’re really blown away with the show of love. Thank you for being the loving heart that you are,” said Durham, addressing Kunkel.
“They’re (foster children) so worthy and we just want them to know that,” added Kunkel. “To know how loved they are and to know that there are people out there that really sincerely care.”
“She nailed it. These kids are worthy,” Durham said. “They deserve to feel like they’re cared about and appreciated, and it’s just awesome.”
For more information on Love on Wheels and to donate, click here.
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