Edith Natividad is showing her six grandchildren the importance of giving back this Christmas.
On Sunday, she brought them to the Copperas Cove Soup Kitchen. The Blessing Box she built two years ago sits at the front entrance.
"I wanted something that was 24 hours," Natividad said. "To use when the kitchen is closed."
She and her grandchildren unloaded bags from her car filled with cans to restock the pantry.
"I don't know how many people this will feed, but at least we are helping somebody," Natividad said.
Natividad said these cans provide more than just a meal, they're a reminder that someone cares.
"It's a time of giving," Natividad said. "Sharing what you have. It's not all about money. It's not all about toys."
"It makes me happy for the people in need to get some stuff," said 9-year-old Koe'Lani Palemene, Natividad's granddaughter.
Her grandkids lined up in front of the Blessing Box, eager to fill it back up.
"It makes me happy," said 10-year-old Keli'i Natividad, Natividad's grandson. "It makes other people have joy in themselves."
While every child looks forward to the gifts under the tree, Natividad knows her grandkids have found the joy in helping others.
"I like doing this all together because we all can make other people happy," Keli'i said.
Like any grandmother, Natividad couldn't be more proud of her grandkids. They're just as proud of her.
"I'm happy she made this box," Koe'Lani said. "She helps a lot of people."
"Every time she does something, she makes other people happy," Keli'i said.
Natividad plans on building more Blessing Boxes around town in the new year.
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