x
Breaking News
More () »

Local 5th-grader makes 'Crosses with Heart' to honor healthcare workers, first responders

Each cross costs $5 and that money will go to local children's hospitals.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A fifth grade student from Lexington-Richland School District 5 is making red wooden crosses to support healthcare workers and first responders.

Landon Barley is a student at Oak Pointe Elementary.

He calls the program 'Crosses with Heart.'

The Barleys want the community to display the crosses to honor those on the front lines battling COVID-19.

Each cross costs $5 and that money will go to local children's hospitals. 

Credit: Lex Rich School District Five
If you’d like to order a cross you can email Landon’s mother at chrystalbarley@gmail.com

The family said they learned children's hospitals were tossing all art supplies and toys because of the coronavirus; so the money raised from selling the crosses will help replace those items at hospitals across the state.

RELATED: City of Columbia lowers flags to honor coronavirus victims

“My best friend’s mom is a nurse, and I noticed she was spending more time away from home to help everyone that was sick,” Landon said. “I wanted to do something to show support for all the healthcare workers and first responders. They are risking their lives to save ours. I want to give hope and wish for the best.”

So far, the Barleys have made hundreds of crosses and shipped them to at least 11 states.

RELATED: Sumter County Courthouse goes blue for first responders

Landon added, “It makes me feel good that I am helping people. I hope every front door has a cross on it! I want to give hope and put a smile on people’s faces." 

If you’d like to order a cross you can email Landon’s mother at chrystalbarley@gmail.com.

Before You Leave, Check This Out