Sometimes, the biggest acts of love come from the smallest hands. That was true for Brealynn, a student from Scott Elementary who was determined to make a difference in her community. But her story begins with someone else’s quiet mission—her mother’s.
When Brealynn’s mom accepted a position at Samaritan House Greeley—a Catholic Charities shelter for people experiencing homelessness—she wasn’t just taking a job. She was answering a call to serve others in a way that would make her daughter proud. It was important to her that Brealynn saw what compassion looked like lived out each day: not just in words, but in action. That mission became her daily rhythm—welcoming guests, offering dignity, and helping to restore hope to those in need.
What she didn’t know was how closely her daughter had been watching.
One sunny afternoon, that hope came full circle. Inspired by her mother’s stories—the challenges faced by Samaritan House guests, the small victories, and the unshakable human spirit—Brealynn decided she wanted to help too. Without prompting, she gathered four of her friends and organized a lemonade stand outside their elementary school. They created handmade signs, poured ice-cold lemonade, and stood with bright smiles and even brighter hearts.
In just 30 minutes, the third graders raised an astounding $88.
When Brealynn handed the money to her mom, it was more than just a donation—it was a reflection of what her mom had modeled for her: love in action. The two of them went shopping together, thoughtfully choosing hygiene items like soap, toothpaste, shampoo; and deodorant—items that are always needed but often out of reach for the guests at Samaritan House.
As they filled the cart together, a quiet sense of joy filled her mom’s heart. This was exactly why she had chosen this work. Not only to make a difference in the lives of those served, but to plant seeds of compassion in her daughter’s life. And here it was—growing beautifully before her eyes.
Thanks to Brealynn’s big heart, her friends’ teamwork, and the generous support of the Scott Elementary community, many lives were touched that day. What began as a mother’s mission had become her daughter’s passion too.
Their story is a testament to the truth that we are never too young—or too ordinary—to bring hope. Sometimes, even a simple lemonade stand becomes a vessel of Jesus’ healing hand, reaching the poor and those most in need.
If you’re interested in learning how you can be a part of what Samaritan House Greeley is doing for our community by holding a drive or fundraiser please contact Lindsey at lschwartz@ccdenver.org or call 970.616.8606.