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Local Girl Launches Wish Campaign for Elderly Neighbors

Fifth grader Ruby Kate Chitsey often spent time with the residents in the nursing home where her mother works, so when one of them mentioned a need to see her dog more often, she was moved with compassion.

“It was very sad,” Ruby Kate told CNN. “We have a lot of dogs and I could feel her pain."

Her compassion turned to curiosity, as she wondered how many other residents have similarly unfulfilled needs. That idea turned to a campaign called “Three Wishes for Ruby’s Residents,” which included a Facebook page and a GoFundMe account. Ruby Kate, with help from her mom Amanda, surveys residents about the things they wished they had, collects donations from around the area, and coordinates trips to see about getting those needs met.

"They weren't new cars or a million dollars [they wanted],” said Ruby Kate. “They were very simple things that you could just go in Walmart and get—and that's what we do." Whether it’s Happy Meals from McDonalds, baby dolls for dementia patients, lumbar supports, or neck pillows, Ruby Kate and Amanda make trips two or three times a week for the residents, and the program has gotten so popular that they’ve expanded it to five different assisted living facilities around the area.

Ruby Kate’s mom Amanda has become so inspired, she hopes the movement can go nationwide.

"I think Ruby's starting a movement—recognizing a need and just doing something about it. This is about their quality of life—bringing them joy."

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