Ohio boy sells his toys to help his family

[RaVen Blackehart]

An 11-year-old Ohio boy is helping ease his family's financial burdens, one toy at a time.
Zach McGuire wants to do his part while his family goes through hard times,

Zach McGuire is selling his toys to raise money for his family, which like others across the country, has bills piling up and a home in jeopardy.

The youth said the idea came up during a conversation with his father.

"You can't live in toys, or eat toys," he told CNN television affiliate WNWO. "Even though they are fun, you don't need them."

Zach plans to use the proceeds for a good cause: helping his unemployed father.

Tom McGuire, a licensed contractor in Toledo, Ohio, has not had a job since December. The economy is partly to blame, he said, adding that he did a job last summer and never got paid.

As the general contractor on the job, he said, he was financially liable for materials and the work of two subcontractors. "I'm out $30,000," McGuire said.

The father said he is looking for work and is not relying on money from his son's toy sales. But he appreciates his effort.

"Zach has a big, giving heart," McGuire said. "He came to me with this idea. He wants to contribute."
It's not the first time Zach has helped those in need. In 2005, he sold Kool-Aid for victims of Hurricane Katrina and raised $400. A few years later, it was "Cocoa for California," which he sold to help wildfire victims.

"I am very proud of him," McGuire told WNWO. "He is an 11-year-old boy not living the life of an 11-year-old."


Zach said everyone can do something.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/07/20/ohi...ef=mpstoryview

Video:
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/07/20/ohi...ew#cnnSTCVideo

[Athena]

Very admirable. I wonder how many adults sell their toys when the going gets rough. I hope to see this family's lot improve soon.

[Angelinfl]

How many people bought their kids too much and gave them too priviledged a life and these people don't even realize there are old fashioned values that need to be learned. Less is better sometimes and its not what you spend on your kids its time you spend with your kids that also makes a difference doing quality activities that are legal, healthy, envigorating and character building.