OXFORD, Mich. – Two young sisters from Oxford are proving that you’re never too small to make a big difference.
Hazel and Alice Nicosia, just 10 and 8 years old, are leading a massive community effort to feed families in need through their annual “Little Friendsgiving” food drive.
It all started six years ago when Hazel, then only 4, spotted someone experiencing homelessness and told her mom she wanted to help. That simple act of compassion sparked an idea that has since grown into a countywide tradition.
With the support of their mom, Holly, and the nonprofit Lighthouse — which provides food and emergency housing assistance — the girls began collecting canned goods and other staples from neighbors and classmates. What started as a few boxes of donations has now grown into a full-scale community campaign.
This year, the Little Friendsgiving drive is expected to collect more than three tons of food, enough to help feed hundreds of families across Metro Detroit. Altogether, the sisters and their volunteers have gathered more than 10 tons of food since the project began.
In addition to canvassing neighborhoods, the sisters have organized lemonade stands, bake sales and art fundraisers to buy groceries and supplies. Their volunteer network now includes dozens of local kids and families from across Oakland County.
For their efforts, Hazel was recently recognized with a special tribute from the State of Michigan Governor’s Office, honoring her outstanding community service.
The next big milestone comes Nov. 1, when a semi-truck from Lighthouse will arrive at the family’s home to haul away the donations — a tradition that has become a highlight of the season in Oxford.
Anyone who wants to support the Little Friendsgiving food drive can make a donation or learn more here.