Macaylah LeBlanc, 11

Why nominated

“She has such a huge heart,” wrote Terena Fox, Macaylah’s former teacher at James Irwin Elementary.

“She took note of how cold it’s been outside and decided to come up with 'Operation Blanket.' This cause will benefit homeless people who can use an extra blanket this winter. At a school assembly, Macaylah told us all about her mission to help collect and distribute blankets. Her teacher, Ms. Fisher, and the entire fifth grade gave her a standing ovation for her thoughtfulness (and bravery! It’s tough to address an entire school!)”

Q&A with Macaylah

Can you tell me about Operation Blanket?

“We would just put out a big bucket in the lobby and have everybody just donate. And I would … speak in front of a big assembly.”

How long did the drive go for?

“Dec. 17 was the last day.” (It started just after Thanksgiving.)

What inspired Operation Blanket?

“I just saw a couple of homeless people on the street and then I thought, well, winter’s coming up, and they’re going to be really cold.”

How many blankets did you collect?

“About 675 blankets.”

Do you plan on doing it again?

“I’m thinking of doing it with my sister and a couple of friends next year.”

How did you distribute the blankets?

“We went to Sam’s (Club) and we saw a homeless guy in a wheelchair, and we decided to give him a blanket. And then we gave a blanket to someone at Wal-Mart that was homeless. Then there was a big handout to homeless people at America the Beautiful Park, and so we just sat there" (and handed out blankets).

Were you nervous speaking at the assembly?

“I was very nervous. It was kind of fun.”

What do you want to be when you grow up?

“I was thinking of being a chef or something like that.”

Favorite hobby

Playing with friends

Favorite school subject

Math

Least favorite subject

She doesn’t have one.