After first sharing the story about local 8-year-old Aspen who decided to create and sell Christmas decorations in support of Riverside Mission earlier this month, the community came through and helped her hand over a hefty cheque this week.

Aspen had been creating Christmas ornaments with her mom, Jaqueline, and selling them for $5 online and in-person. She was also able to sell them in stores with the help of Sahara Spa, and at Cornell Design and Landscaping. 

In the end, Aspen was able to hand over $3,340 to Riverside Mission from the sales. 

"Christmas is a time that you spend with family," said Aspen, "and I like opening presents, but what I like most is spending time with family. I think it's important to have a nice hot meal with your friends or family at Christmas time."