Local Student Steps Up to Support Women and Girls in Our Shelter
At just 12 years old, Amelia Caudle is already making a meaningful difference in the community.
A sixth grader at Martin Middle School, Amelia recently donated more than 800 feminine hygiene products to The Salvation Army of Wake County as the first step in launching her community project, GirlGear. Her project focuses on providing essential feminine hygiene products to people who don’t always have access to them—items that are often overlooked but critically important.
These products are not covered by SNAP benefits, making them difficult to afford for many families. Donations like Amelia’s help The Salvation Army meet critical needs while restoring dignity and confidence to those we serve.
Inspired by Friendship and Compassion
Amelia’s idea for GirlGear grew out of personal experience and empathy.
“I wanted to start something to do good,” Amelia shared. “I had a friend who lived in a homeless shelter, and she didn’t always have access to these things. I realized how hard that was for her.”
Amelia saw firsthand how the lack of basic necessities affected her friend not just physically, but emotionally.
“It didn’t help her mental wellness,” Amelia said. “It was hard for her to see other kids with everything while she struggled to get what she needed.”
That experience stayed with Amelia and sparked a desire to help other girls facing similar challenges.
Starting Small, Thinking Big
To bring GirlGear to life, Amelia started a GoFundMe campaign, hoping to raise enough money to place dispensers in schools. While she didn’t reach her full fundraising goal, she refused to give up.
“I didn’t raise all the money I needed, but I raised enough to buy products and start small,” Amelia said. “I can continue to grow.”
Choosing The Salvation Army as the recipient of her first donation felt natural.
“I know The Salvation Army helps a lot of people in need,” she said. “I feel really excited that I’m going to be able to help girls here. I’m happy I’m able to do this for other people.”
A Mother’s Pride and a Growing Vision
Amelia’s mom, Brooke Caudle, says her daughter’s compassion has been evident for years.
“She’s always wanted to help,” Brooke said. “When she was in elementary school, she started making packs for kids who got their period at school and didn’t have what they needed. The idea has just continued to evolve.”
Brooke says Amelia’s exposure to the realities some children face has shaped her perspective.
“She has what she needs, and seeing kids who don’t gives her a different appreciation,” Brooke said. “I’m incredibly proud of her. She’s sharp, kind, and thoughtful.”
Amelia already has ideas for the future including expanding GirlGear into schools and potentially forming a nonprofit.
Meeting a Real Need in Our Community
We are grateful to Amelia for her generosity, her compassion, and her reminder that no one is too young to make a difference.
Thank you, Amelia, for helping us serve our neighbors with compassion and care.