9-Year-Old Collects Over 100 Coats for Brookdale Resource Center Residents

On Wednesday, January 15, Lane Elementary 3rd grader Ava Hardy delivered more than 100 warm coats to the Brookdale Resource Center. This marks the sixth year Ava has collected and donated coats, and the third year she has partnered with Brookdale to help residents stay warm during the cold months.

“It feels great that I can help people,” Ava shared. “I want them to be warm during these cold days.”

Her mother, Quintessa Hardy, emphasized the importance of community involvement. “I’m trying to teach my daughter to be community-driven from an early age,” she said. “And this aligns with why Brookdale was originally created… to keep people warm in the cold months.”

Ava’s initiative extended beyond collecting coats. Alison Bender, Executive Director of Brookdale, praised her efforts. “Ava has done a really good job reaching out to partners, organizing the collection, and creating a true collaborative effort,” Bender said.

During the delivery, Ava’s leadership shone as she directed Mercer University students and Brookdale staff, helped unload the coats from the truck, and confidently spoke to news crews about her mission.

“It feels great [to do this work], and I hope the people who I donate the coats to are happy,” Ava added.

The coat drive began in October, with support from several partners, including Unique Beauty, LLC, the District Attorney’s Office, Mayor Lester Miller, Macon-Middle Georgia Black Pages, Dillard’s at The Shoppes at River Crossing, The Central Georgia Coalition of Black Businesses, and the Macon Black Pages.

Ava Hardy’s dedication to helping others continues to make a difference in her community.