I’ve just returned from a week in the Midwest where I did several On That Day, Everybody Ate book readings.  During my time in Chicago, I spoke to 300 Kindergarten – 5th graders at the Carl Sandburg Elementary School in Wheaton. The school is doing a “loose change” collection for the What If? Foundation throughout the month of October as part of their “Make A Difference” day focus.  I showed them slides of the food program at St. Clare’s and talked about the hunger so many children their age face every day in Haiti and what a difference their collection will make. The kids were focused and responsive and enthusiastic about helping out.  One boy said he had $10 saved and knew that would make 15 meals possible (70 cents/meal).  He told him mom that he wanted to fly to Haiti himself to give the money to the children so they would know he cared.  The kids at Carl Sandburg Elementary reminded me of the importance of believing that every small step we take is important and that reaching out with compassion is what our world needs.  I am always inspired by the generous hearts of children.  – Margaret