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Chesapeake teenager asks for donations to Foodbank instead of gifts for his birthday

Posted at 9:26 PM, Jul 29, 2015
and last updated 2015-07-29 21:26:36-04

Chesapeake, Va. - A Chesapeake teenager with down syndrome is taking action and asking for donations for the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, instead of presents for his 17th birthday.

Cory Breslin's parents say he saw a picture of the empty shelves at the Foodbank and started brainstorming with them on how to get results.

After talking to the owner of Jerry's Restaurant and Lounge in Chesapeake, they decided to host a food drive on Friday from 12:00 to 4:00 at the location on 1102 Sparrow Road.

It's the same days as Cory's birthday, and instead of presents, he's asking for canned food items and donations.

Foodbank employees tell NewsChannel 3 that the summer is when they see the biggest drop in donations. This comes at a time when more families are in need.

"We need them to think about the Foodbank, we need their help," says Marianne Smith Vargas, Chief Philanthropy Officer. "Cory is taking action, he's also taking charge. We want everyone in the community to follow in his footsteps. It's heart melting."

Jerry's Restaurant and Lounge staff say they will also be taking donations throughout the week.

If you cannot make the event, you can donate online using Cory's food drive page.