Young Resident Buys Food for Needy Family

Christopher Hering is a giver.

The 16-year-old Boy Scout has solicited gift cards and restaurants for two years. He uses the cards to purchase food for a needy Wayne family.

“Not everyone is as fortunate as we are so I thought that I should give back to the community,” Hering said. “We’re lucky to be able to give back. Some people could use what I give to help make this a special holiday for their family.”

Herring uses the donated gift cards to purchase food. He buys items for the entire family. He makes sure he has enough of the necessities and then buys more luxury items.

He purchased more than $300 worth of food last year. This year, he was able to buy a less than $300. Tony’s Touch of Italy and Brother Bruno’s Pizzeria donated gift cards.

Hering gives the food to Regina Parks, the township health director. Parks then determines who should receive the food and gift cards.

 “I know times are tough and when you see that people need help you should try and help them,” Hering’s father Paul said. “The community has been great and really responded to what he’s tried to do.”

Hering said he started to take the Boy Scouts and school more seriously a few years ago. That ignited this giving streak that he hopes to continue.

Hering also donates his time to build homes with Habitat for Humanity in Paterson twice a year.

Hering is trying to earn the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 107 at Our Lady of Consolation Church. He is constructing and installing a 20-foot high cross and a flagpole at the church.

“The Boy Scouts have had a really good influence on him,” Paul Hering said.

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