On their birthdays, most children are preoccupied with the presents they are getting. Not so with Chippendale's 12 year-old Ari Schlossberg. Ari spent his last five birthdays collecting food for the Cuba Township Food Pantry. The Prairie Middle School sixth grader started his annual food drive five years ago as a way to give something back to the world each year on his birthday. Ari collected food at his school, at his parents' offices, and from friends and family.

This year, Ari expanded his collection efforts by reaching out to his Chippendale neighbors.  His food drive set new records. Ari and his parents, Ruth and Mark, were deeply moved by the giving spirit of the Chippendale neighborhood.  An amazing number of number of people gave notes, generous donations, and kind words in support of Ari's efforts. Ari further helped the food pantry by sorting and stacking food, and preparing a box of food and household items for a recipient family.

Ari wants you all to know that the food pantry can always use non-perishable food (unexpired please), gift cards, and household items, especially laundry soap. Ari plans to set new records next fall when he collects Food Pantry donations again, so get ready!  He hopes that he'll be able to reach every single house next year. (This year, he didn't quite make it through every nook and cranny of the neighborhood even with the help of his friend Tucker). Ari's endeavors to help the less fortunate are an excellent example of the saying, "It is better to give than receive", (even on your birthday.)