April 10, 2020
Each night before bedtime four-year old Braden Hussey and his parents talk about what made them feel grateful that day. On March 30th, Braden and his mom, Janelle Hussey, began their nightly routine talking about how hard Braden’s dad, Chris Hussey, was working as a firefighter and paramedic with the Rockland Fire Department and Brewster Ambulance Service. Braden interrupted and asked his mother “How can we make a difference, too?” Braden wanted to find a way to support his Dad, other area first responders and the service workers and health care staff at South Shore Hospital.
He devised the idea to make posters to display for all to see on their route to work – but wanted “the kind that don’t break.” In addition, Braden wanted to ask his classmates and friends at Saint Paul School (Hingham) if they would like to join him. “ Saint Paul School values and encourages kindness, being good neighbors, caring for each other. When there is an idea that may help a community member in need, everyone is included in the effort,” shared Mrs. Hussey.
The next morning Mrs. Hussey contacted local printer Bill Files with Anchor Press in Norwell. “I shared Braden’s idea with him and asked what it would cost to put a picture on a yard sign.” Mr. Files was so impressed with this thoughtful idea that he immediately replied, “I’d love to help,’ and shared that he would print as many pictures as Braden and his friends could make. Mrs. Hussey was stunned when Mr. Files added that Anchor Press would create the yard signs at no cost. Mr. Files shared that his wife, Peggy O’Neil Files, works at South Shore Hospital as the manager of Pastoral Care, and he knew that this effort would lift the spirits of many working at the facility.
With that Braden reached out to the Saint Paul School Community, distributed templates to his school mates and received 135 posters of support within 24 hours. Anchor Press then transferred these images onto yard signs that were ready for posting this week.
“It is so humbling to see such a simple idea from a 4-year old be embraced so quickly by an entire school and a businessman we had never before met. This is a huge gift from a small business, especially at this challenging time. We are so grateful for the support and care of Saint Paul School, Anchor Press and Mr. Files,” shares Mrs. Hussey. In 10 days the simple idea of one Preschool student became an opportunity for a school and community to voice their appreciation and care. Lisa Fasano, principal of Saint Paul School, remarked, “Braden is such a joyful and caring student. It is no surprise that his friends at Saint Paul would want to support him and this great idea. Students want to know how they can help and show their appreciation for front-line workers, many of whom are Saint Paul School parents. We are so proud of Braden for sharing this great opportunity.” Braden was in awe by the number of signs of support that he and his parents have now placed around the campus of South Shore Hospital. With a big smile, his reaction to this effort is “Many hands make light work!”
This is amazing for Braden and his classmate’s to care enough at such a young age.
Community ,is trying times is so important. We all are frightened of what’s to come,the kindness of Braden and his classmates is the calm we all need. Children see hope not sadness. His parents and his school have tought him well.