Marley Gentry is a little girl with a big heart. At just 8 years old, she has already developed a generous spirit.

Several weeks ago Marley came up with the idea to collect socks for children who might be with-out warm feet this winter.

“I just imagined if I didn’t have socks, it would be horrible,” Marley said.

A few weeks ago Marley went to her mother, Mandy Gentry, with the idea of helping kids in her community.

“It all came from her,” Mandy said.

When Marley first presented the idea to her mother Mandy shied away from the idea.

“I thought we didn’t have the time, but when she brought it up, I couldn’t say no,” Mandy said.

The mother and daughter team immediately sprung into action, putting Marley’s plan into place. Mandy frantically made phone calls to every business owner she knew, asking if they would donate a small portion of space in the front of their businesses to collect socks.

“I had no idea where to start, we have never organized anything like this before,” Mandy said.

After two days of frantic phone calls Mandy had a list of 17 local businesses willing to become drop of points.

Mandy and Marley wrapped several boxes to look like Christmas packages, and Marley used her computer savvy to create a flier detailing what she was collecting.

“I hope we get a lot of socks, and it goes well. I really hope we can do it again,” Marley said.

Marley is collecting new socks for children of all ages; the socks will be taken to Family Advocates of Gordon County on Dec. 13. Marley’s program began on Nov. 6 and will continue until Dec. 12. On the evening of Dec. 11 Marley and Mandy will be collecting socks outside of the Wal-Mart in Calhoun.

“We have been really lucky to have support from the businesses,” said Mandy.

For Marley, the spirit of benevolence is not new; it is something she has developed over time through generous acts towards friends and strangers.

“Marley has always been this way,” Mandy said. “She has always wanted to help people.”

Those wishing to donate can drop off socks at the following locations: Tractor Supply, Renegade Athletics, Results Unlimited, Valerie’s, Tot Roost, Biddy B, Pokey’s, Dawg Pound, Adairsville Family Chiropractic, Brian’s Auto Sales, The Calhoun Recreation facility, DiPrima’s, Pak Mail, Remax, The Factory, J.D.’s Place Café, and Calhoun Utility.