Small but focused, Helping Hearts of NKY provides basic needs (plus) to students in 19 schools

By Isabella Schultz
NKyTribune staff writer

In the commotion and whirl of Florence and Turfway Road, stands a quiet nonprofit on the backside of the World of Pets store, facing Lloyd Avenue.

Though small and hidden from the busy main road, the non-profit, Helping Hearts, has had a crucial impact on its community over the years.

Ten years ago, the World of Pets store owner, Kristi Pickens, knew two things: she wanted to continue her life of volunteering and working in the non-profit industry, and that the top section of the World of Pets building was vacant.

So, she thought, why not put it to good use?

Starting out, Pickens tried to tackle as much as she could to help her community and its needs. However, focusing on all the needs of the community all at once caused her to have to take a step back and reflect on what her non-profit was truly about.

“I thought, ‘what are we good at?’” said Pickens.

Thus, this thought led to where it is today, serving the children of the Northern Kentucky communities. Helping Hearts NKY proudly provides for about 700 kids per school year, primarily focusing on fifth-grade students and below.

With help from Once Upon a Child and donations from across the community, Pickens and her small team of volunteers provide school children from 19 schools in the area with everything from clothes to shoes to hygiene products.

With most of her team having an educational background, they know exactly what young students need to be successful in the classroom and out.

Working directly through these 19 schools, Pickens ensures that every student is taken care of.

As the start of the school year may be the busiest time of the year for them, they are sure to provide Christmas presents and winter coats during the winter months, and infant necessities for pregnant teens all year long.

So, Pickens and her team may be small in number, but they know that they are creating a positive influence on a child’s life every single day.

“It’s my little difference that I’m making,” said Pickens.For more information about Helping Hearts NKY and how to donate, contact the non-profit organization directly at helpingheartsNKY@gmail.com.