'They shouldn't be left out': Kenosha 12-year-old organizes toy drive for local students

 

KENOSHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- At just 12-years-old, Jaxson Thomas has one goal in mind this holiday season, spreading holiday cheer by helping local children and families in need.

"I know sometimes that kids don’t have Christmas presents or barely anything and I just want to put a smile on their face for this Christmas," said Thomas.

Growing up with autism, Thomas relies on his community for support and to give back to his hometown, he's organized his biggest toy drive yet.

"I like doing this every year, because I don’t want to see kids be sad every year," said Thomas.

This year he is collecting toys for Kenosha elementary school students.

"They shouldn’t be left out on something that they can't always do every Christmas," said Thomas.

Thomas's Mom, Autumn Thomas, says her son has always had a passion for helping people and connecting with his community.

"It fills me up with joy that he wants to help other people and figures out ways to do it, because Jaxson will figure out a way," said Autumn Thomas.

Competing in pageants and winning the Mr. Sweetheart of America title, Thomas is committed to his community and spreading kindness.

"It just makes me happy," said Thomas.

Jaxson recruited local businesses as drop-off locations and other community members to help. including his best friend Jadyn Eisenbraun.

"It's just been really good to just see the community support him," said Eisenbraun. "Even people that don’t really know his story, but just see that he is so willing to do this to people and they want to help. It's been really good."

Together they've collected hundreds of toys, hoping to gift multiple presents to around 100 kids in need from four different KUSD elementary schools.

"It's been like the coolest thing ever because just seeing Jaxson's reaction to everything has been so heartwarming," said Eisenbraun. "He comes in the store and sees all the toys and wants to cry. I'm like Jaxson you're going to make me cry right now."

This year, Thomas is going beyond just gift giving, creating the full Christmas experience.

Each referred student will be invited to a special Christmas bash where they can enjoy presents, Santa, sweet treats dancing and more.

"I'm excited to see how all the kids react at the event and stuff and Autumn is like it's going to be so good," said Eisenbraun. "They are going to be so excited. "I really hope so, I just hope they get the whole experience and take a lot away from it."

Thomas says all their hard work is worth it when he sees the kids' faces light up with smiles.

"Just knowing how the kids feel when they get presents," said Thomas.

They say the holiday season is all about giving back.

"It's just really important to give back during the holiday season, like he said it's not always about gifts," said Autumn Thomas. "It's about giving to your neighbor, love, depending on what religion you are and what you believe in, that’s what it's truly about."

Jaxson's toy collection wrapped up December 6th. The Christmas distribution event will take place on the 20th for invited families.