May 21, 2013

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Reporter: Chris Thomas Email

Only on 12: Local restaurants Give it 4Ward to burned out family

News 12 First at Five, May 4, 2009

AUGUSTA, Ga.---School is challenging enough with tests and peer pressure, but what happens when tragedy strikes? A 7 year old girl is the sole survivor of a fatal fire that killed her mother, sister, and cousin. She started her first full week back to school Monday. Give it 4Ward was there with a big surprise.

The Give it 4Ward organization gave little 7 year old Shakiera more than $700 in free food, clothes, and toys. Golden Corral, Chick-Fil-A, and Arby's all pitched in to help. Organizers say this one was personal.

"I have two children age 6 and 9," Candye Smith who started the program. "When I found out what she went through I just couldn't imagine what she must be feeling."

"This is something I will never forget," said Sue Jamroga who is Shakiera's teacher. "Shakiera has always been a special little student. She always has a smile for everyone, and when I found out about the tragedy....my heart just broke."

Shakiera spent weeks in the hospital suffering from smoke inhalation. She still has weekly check-ups.


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Give It 4Ward Video

About Give It 4Ward

Give It 4Ward is a ministry devoted to the act of giving.

"Giving people a brighter experience is our main mission!" says founder Candye B. Smith. "It is a sharing of love, compassion, and hope. It is uplifting people regardless of their backgrounds, ethnicity or nationality. Give It 4Ward is a celebration of the recipient that is blessed for that day. Even though the giving is for a day, the seeds that are planted last a lifetime."
You can read more about Give It 4Ward here.

Do you know a person or group that deserves to be a Give it 4Ward recipient? Click here and tell us their story to nominate them.