(MOBILE, Ala.) – It’s easy to think of Sahnte Kiwele as an average kid. “When I grow up, I [will] play football,” he said. If not the NFL, he just may have a higher calling. “A child of God is to go [to] heaven.”
Whether it’s preacher or pro-athlete or something different all together, a lot of what Sahnte learns will have come from Wilmer Hall, a children’s home in West Mobile. Sahnte, like many children Executive Director Sally Greene has met over the years, has lived at Wilmer Hall, much of his young life. Some children come from troubled homes. Others had no home at all.
“In spite of the circumstances they come from, it is remarkable what they can accomplish and what they can do when they're given a safe home to live in," Greene said..
For Sahnte, it was a perfect fit. “I’m going to take you in the house," he said outside one of the home’s dormitories.
Whether he’s the center of attention or paying no attention at all, Sahnte and his fellow house mates know Christmas is coming. Officials at Bel Air Mall wanted to make sure the childrens’ smiles lasted through the holidays.
"It was a no-brainer for us, with the types of needs that Wilmer Hall has,” said Bel Air Mall Spokesperson Shelley Rehberg. She said the mall donated $500 in gift cards to Wilmer Hall. The mall also helped donate clothes, toiletries, toys and other items needed year round.
Like any child his age, Sahnte loves getting gifts. But the 5 year old seemed to have a gift all his own. Gripping his tiny hands together as if a pulpit’s podium was in front of him, the youngster said, “Christmas is about God," he said gesturing as a young preacher.
It’s probably safe to guess what line of work Sahnte may one day choose. After all, at Wilmer Hall, he sets the example of not only eating healthy, "I am impressed that you like broccoli,” Greene told Sahnte. He also knows the importance of honesty. “Does Ms. Jane fix good broccoli,” Greene asked.
“No,” Sahnte innocently said to Greene’s surprise and laughter.
Who can blame a child for telling the truth?
