Oxford Sisters Lead Massive Metro Detroit Food Drive, Honored by Governor

Hazel and Alice Nicosia run a food drive in Oxford that will pull in over three tons of food this year. Hundreds of families across Metro Detroit will eat because of them. The sisters are 10 and 8. They call their yearly event "Little Friendsgiving" and work with Lighthouse, a group that gives food and emergency housing help to people who need it.

The State of Michigan Governor's Office honored Hazel with a special tribute for her work. This recognition caps off years of effort. The young organizers have gathered more than 10 tons of food since they started six years ago.

The drive began when Hazel was 4. She saw someone who had no home and told her mom she wanted to help.

Holly, the girls' mother, liked the idea. The family teamed up with Lighthouse to launch what became a countywide tradition.

Hazel and Alice Nicosia started by collecting canned goods and other staples from neighbors and classmates. A few boxes grew into a campaign with dozens of volunteers from across Oakland County.

The siblings have set up lemonade stands, bake sales, and art fundraisers to buy groceries and supplies. Kids and families throughout the region now help them.

People who want to support Little Friendsgiving can make donations through the Lighthouse website. The group continues to accept contributions for the yearly campaign.