'Inspirational' nine-year-old girl collecting for the homeless

Kaci Brooks is putting together rucksacks filled with warm clothing, sleeping bags, ground sheets, toiletries, food and drink.

She came up with the idea after seeing homeless people while walking through different towns with her family.

The Endeavour School pupil said: "I want to help the homeless because seeing people people in need makes me feel sad.

"My mission is to donate rucksacks to the homeless and items for their pets too.

"My mum, aunties and friends are collecting donations on my behalf so please contact them to collect and contributions, no matter how big or small, it's all appreciated.

"We're in this together."

Kaci's mother Amy said she is starting to have faith in her parenting skills with the nine-year-old's drive as she says her daughter, who has social anxiety issues, has 'just blossomed.'

The 27-year-old said: "I couldn't be more proud of her as she us really trying to make a difference, and it's really encouraging her to speak out, which is amazing and is definitely making herself heard.

"Kaci is a very quiet girl but loves school and she is a very hard worker. She's a pure inspiration."

The Maize Close girl is helping to sort out the donations and has a Facebook page to help drum up support.

So far the group has 1,250 members.

Mrs Brook said her daughter has always wanted to help the homeless people she encountered, adding: "We ended up buying sausage rolls for them all.

"I saw in her eyes how confused she was as to why people were homeless.

"She will be giving out the rucksacks herself through a drop-in centre.

"I will be distributing each week to the homeless in Andover with my two sisters and best friend as a group.

"We will be handing out fresh clothes, warm coats, blankets and sleeping bags and also food and cartons of juice."

To help out with Kaci's cause, visit her Facebook page, #hope4homelessness Kaci’s Mission, at facebook.com/groups/711225739079802.