by Mike Matzinger
A freshman at Perrysburg High School in Ohio is proving that leadership has no age limit.
Fourteen-year-old Caleb Blaine, working toward his Eagle Scout rank, has launched the Present Pantry at Mercy College of Ohio to support students who are also parents.
Caleb recognized that while the college already offered a food pantry, another need remained unmet. Some students are balancing coursework, jobs, and raising children. Birthdays and holidays can add financial pressure. His idea was simple and thoughtful: create a space where student parents can access toys for their children at no cost.
He raised $600 from family and friends, then worked alongside more than 8 volunteers over two days to purchase, organize, and stock 50 to 60 toys. That initial effort became the foundation of what is now the Present Pantry.
Since opening in January, the pantry has already supported more than three dozen students. College leaders have also seen increased engagement with campus resources following the addition of the toy pantry, reinforcing how small acts of service can create a ripple effect.