Friday, March 29, 2024

Southlake Youth Recognized for "Pennies for Life" Bake Sale

Azka Rafique raised $1,800 for Moore, Oklahoma tornado victims

The saying “Charity begins at home, but should not end there,” is certainly the philosophy of 10-year-old Azka Rafique, a student at Rockenbaugh Elementary who hosted a bake sale at her home May 26 to raise money for the tornado victims in Moore, Oklahoma.

Called Pennies for Life, which Rafique came up with, the one-day event raised $1,800 through the support of family, friends, neighbors and Southlake residents, including Mayor John Terrell who donated brownies to the bake sale.

Rafique donated $1000 to the Chisholm Trail Red Cross Chapter, earmarked for Oklahoma disaster relief, during a formal check presentation at the June 18 City Council meeting, during which she was publicly commended for her efforts. The remaining $800 was given to Helping Hands Ministries.

According to Rafique’s mother, Saman Shabnam, this is not the youth’s first philanthropic endeavor as she raised approximately $400 two years ago that was donated to a Christian charity organization.

“She wants to continue to do volunteer projects and is asking to work at the GRACE food pantry,” says Shabnam, noting they are in the process of setting up a charitable organization to continue her efforts.

To watch the check presentation and ceremony during the City Council meeting, please click here.

An image of a family bowling and dining

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