THE WOODLANDS, Texas – The holiday season is a time of giving, and one local 13-year-old is making a difference in the lives of veterans.
Elliot Perry, an 8th grader at McCullough Junior High in The Woodlands, is bringing Christmas cheer to the Richard Anderson State Veterans Home on December 24 by donating 125 Christmas stockings filled with thoughtful items.
“I’ve always had a big appreciation for veterans in the military.” Elliot said. “While it’s great that we have Veterans Day to honor them... I think [Veterans] should feel honored every day. This is my way [of] giving them a token of my appreciation.”
Elliot’s stockings include snacks, combs, razors, toiletries, playing cards, and other essentials, all carefully chosen to bring comfort and joy to veterans.
“The stuffing process was great… being able to [see] what people need and knowing that I’m helping them” Elliot shared. “See[ing] the joy on their face when they realize...this is for them.”
What makes this act of kindness even more inspiring is that Elliot personally raised the funds to make it happen, continuing a tradition he started back in New Hampshire before his family’s recent move to Texas this summer.
Elliot expressed that he used social media to help bring awareness to raising the funds but he said that it was truly “the people in the community who were able to donate, whether it was items or money… to help.
Elliot’s commitment to veterans stems from a deep passion for honoring those who have served and being a “big World War II and history guy”.
BJ Perry, Elliot’s father, shared that Elliot is always brainstorming new ways to make a positive impact in the community.
“When Elliot comes up with an idea, I have to take a step back and think, here we go again,” BJ said with a laugh.
But he’s incredibly proud of his son’s dedication. “A lot of people [ask] which super hero or or athletic superstar is your role model? ...My role model is a 13-year-old, is my 13-year-old son.”
Elliot was born three months premature with an 18% chance of survival and has undergone over 70 surgeries. Despite these challenges, Elliot channels his determination into giving back and inspiring others.
Elliot said " When it comes to stocking stuffers, we just keep increasing the numbers, keep expanding and trying to support as many veterans organizations and give back to as many veterans as possible.”
His nonprofit organization, ElliotPerry.org, supports veteran causes and helps children with special needs, like himself.
“What [Elliot] can’t do physically he gives back personally,” said his father. “[Elliot] is committed to helping veterans across the state.”
Elliot’s dedication to veterans and his community serves as an inspiring reminder of how one person, regardless of age or circumstance, can make a meaningful impact.
“It doesn’t matter your age [or]....who you are... you can always make a difference.” Elliot said, encouraging others to join his mission of honoring veterans this holiday season.
This holiday season, Elliot invites the community to join him in honoring veterans and spreading goodwill.
For more information about his nonprofit and its mission, visit www.ElliotPerry.org.
