Jason Aldean Surprises 10-Year-Old Who Donated Birthday Gifts to Homeless Children

All 10-year-old Lillyanna Martinez wanted was to be able to do something to help less fortunate kids. After hearing a story about giving back on The Bobby Bones Show, she decided to make a difference. That’s when Martinez asked the guests invited to her birthday party to bring gifts, not for her, but for children who are in need.

According to the Las Cruces Sun News, Martinez took toys, hats, scarves and jackets to donate to homeless and nearly homeless kids at Jardin de los Niños shelter.

The morning radio show heard about the girl’s good deed and decided to invite her to join the show on Monday morning (Dec. 14).

“Why did you want to do that? Why did you want to give back,” host Bobby Bones asked her.

“I really wanted to help kids my age,” she replied.

What Lillyanan didn’t know is that Bobby Bones had a special surprise for her…

“Hey, what’s up Lillyanna? I heard what you were doing this year, giving your presents to needy kids and it’s unbelievable. I think we need more kids to set an example like that,” Jason Aldean said in a pre-recorded message.

Aldean, who happens to be her favorite country artist, then gave her presents that he asked her to keep. “We’re going to send you an autographed guitar and we’re also going to get you tickets to any show of mine that you want to come to, meet and greet so I have a chance to say thank you to you in person.”

Lillyanna is excited to see her favorite country star and her mom, Celena Barraza, couldn’t be more thankful. “I have learned that generosity doesn’t go unrecognized,” Barraza told the Las Cruses Sun News. “I want for kids to realize that this may not happen every day. We may not be immediately rewarded for our kindness, but that isn’t what it’s all about. For Lilly — genuinely in her heart — she just wants to help.”

And Lillyana’s good deed is still helping those who need it most. The spotlight on Jardin de los Niños has also been a welcome surprise for the shelter’s executive director Audrey Hartley. “I feel overwhelmed with joy,” she said. “This attention and support has been so encouraging. People don’t usually think of homeless children this time of year. This has just been an overwhelming gesture of love.”

For more information about Jardin de los Niños, visit jardinlc.org.

*Photo of Lillyanna Martinez above via Robin Zielinski / Sun-News