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Community Corner

8-Year-Old's Birthday Wish Will Help Clean Water in Rwanda

For one little girl who turned 8 in early May, the greatest gift is being able to contribute to clean water in Rwanda. Sponsored by Post Grape-Nuts.

About this sponsorship: In honor of the 60th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary's historic ascent of Mount Everest, Patch and Grape-Nuts are teaming up to highlight those who inspire people around them to climb their own mountains.

Facing the Challenge
There are many things that Kylie Longstreth, who turned 8 on May 6, could have asked for to celebrate her birthday.

But instead of asking for gifts for herself, she's asking her community to donate to her fundraising campaign for the people of Rwanda.

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This year, the Oakmont Borough second-grader is asking her neighbors to donate to Charity: Water, an organization dedicating to providing clean water for people around the world.

Finding the Inspiration
"Women and children around the world walk hours every day to collect water for their families. And the worst part? The water they collect can make them really sick," Kylie wrote on her fundraising page. "That makes me sad. But what makes me happy is that we can actually do something about it!"

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Kylie's parents are incredibly proud of their little girl.

"She is compassionate, kind and caring," her father, David, said. Kylie believes that she can change the world—and so do we—so we have helped her talk through options and research organizations."

And the youngster is no stranger to giving for charitable causes.

Kylie has volunteered her time at the Longstreths' church by serving in different ways, David noted on his blog. She writes letters to the girl that the family sponsors who lives in Cambodia, and Kylie has given her clothes and toys to others who would benefit from them.

Reaching the Goal
Kylie created a three-month fundraising project, in which she hoped to raise $1,000 in three months. She met her goal just days into her campaign, and she has increased her goal to $2,500. The campaign ends on July 29.

As of her birthday, Kylie raised enough money to provide clean water for 18 people.

"This new adventure of hers takes all of that to a new level," David wrote on his blog. "Kylie believes that she can change the world—and we believe that she can!"

Read more: Donate: Kylie's Birthday Wish

Kylie's Birthday Wish—Water for Rwanda

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