ORANGEFIELD, Texas — A Southeast Texas teen came up with a way to help make sure people in our area have food on the table after the coronavirus pandemic caused many to lose paychecks and even jobs.
Kaitlyn Jenkins is only 14, and is creating vinyl stickers for people to purchase, but it's not just any business venture. She's giving the money she raises to the Southeast Texas Food Bank.
With thousands of Southeast Texans out of work, the Orangefield teen decided to get creative and help people during the uncertain times.
"I really feel like this is a time when people need help because they have lost their jobs and can't do anything about it," Jenkins said.
Jenkins is in eighth grade at Orangefield Junior High.
Between her online classes and athletic workouts, she's making and selling vinyl stickers.
"They look like this and come in all different designs. They are really easy to stick on to any surface," Jenkins said.
She has five different designs, and is selling them for $4 each. Each comes in red, white, black, mint green, white or blue. They're about 6" by 6".
She's donating all of the profits to the Southeast Texas Food Bank.
Her mom, Nikole Jenkins, told 12News the project was all Kaitlyn's idea.
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"I told her to get some prototypes together and I will help spread the word through Facebook," Nicole Jenkins said.
According to the Southeast Texas Food Bank, a $10 donation can help provide up to 40 meals.
So far, she's raised more than $300.
"I'm very proud of her, she is always trying to come up with way to help people."
In a time when the community is struggling, Jenkins wants to be a bright spot in helping feed Southeast Texas.
"Keep a positive mind, be strong and know you can get through this," Jenkins said.
She says she'll continue to make the vinyl stickers as long as folks are interested.
If you want to buy one, you can reach her by messaging Nikole on Facebook to place the order, and making your payment through PayPal. You can also donate vinyl. To do so, just reach out via Facebook.