Andrea's Limeade Stand
12-year old girl raised $894.65 for SMHC's kids
Andrea Canchola hosted her 7th annual Limeade Picnic in the Park fundraising event with the theme "Don't be sour for kids," on Sunday, July 12, 2009. Hot dogs, chips and plenty of ice cold limeade were served. This year Andrea raised an amazing $894.65 for kids at Southwest Mental Health Center (SMHC).
Her hard work caught the attention of local media. She was featured on Great Day SA, KENS 5 and KABB evening news programs. A San Antonio Express-News reporter also highlighted Andrea's quest to bring a little cheer to our kid's lives.
Click here to read the San Antonio Express-News article.
Click here to view the Great Day SA video clip.
Some of the kids at SMHC stay at the hospital for up to 90 days while undergoing treatment; some arriving without any toys. “Kids need toys to play with and I want to help," says Andrea. "I am just one kid wanting to help other kids and it’s been great to see how many other people want to help, too."
Andrea opened her first limeade stand to benefit SMHC seven years ago in front of her home. She was amazed at how many people wanted to join her quest to provide toys to the children under the center’s care. Over seven years, Andrea had raised a total of more than $7,000 for SMHC's kids.
Andrea’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. She was awarded the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy from the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Andrea is also a three time nominee for the United Way’s Youth Volunteer of the Year award. “I get excited because I know I have a chance to help some kids and that makes my heart feel good,” said Andrea.
ABOUT SMHC: Southwest Mental Health Center (SMHC) is South Texas' only nonprofit children's psychiatric hospital serving children ages 3-17 years old. We provide a variety of services depending on the severity of a child's mental health problems, ranging from outpatient to inpatient care. Our charitable care program enables us to provide greatly needed mental health care for children who could not otherwise afford to receive treatment. Visit www.smhc.org for more information.
