--
Dec. 11--HUNTSVILLE -- Kirsty Griffiths, 11, was saving up for a vacation. Nickels, dimes, pennies and the occasional quarter went into her piggy bank until she had a hefty chunk of change -- $126 to be exact.
In the midst of her savings spree, Griffiths had a change of heart. She heard about the wildfires that Walker County was experiencing over the summer and she decided to donate all of her funds to the fire department.
"I always donate because it always makes me feel better," she said, smiling. "It's kind of like Christmas all year for me. It's better to give than receive."
Huntsville Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief John Hobbs said he's amazed by the amount of community support the fire departments received in wake of the fires.
"For a young person to put that kind of effort toward our relief is very touching," he said. "It shows you what kind of community we work and live in. It's a really neat feeling when a little person steps up to support the fire departments. It takes my breath away."
Trent Coots, youth development coordinator with the YMCA, helped organize the relief drive for the fire departments. He first noticed Griffiths donation -- given all in change.
"When I told this to the fire department they were gracious for the donation, but were floored at her philanthropy and selflessness," Coots said. "This is just a great story and I am so proud of this girl and what she continues to do for the YMCA and those around her. She's always been very philanthropic."
Coots said Griffiths is known throughout YMCA for wanting to help others.
"Every time we do something she always helps out, but this really moved me," he said. "She was saving up for a vacation. It's refreshing to see somebody so young thinking about others. It reminds you to take a step back."
