Random acts of kindness occur in Harlem

Posted 5/28/21

CLEWISTON- As some children descended their school bus, on the very last day of school in Hendry County, they were greeted with some familiar faces. One of Harlem’s matriarchs was there, with …

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Random acts of kindness occur in Harlem

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CLEWISTON- As some children descended their school bus, on the very last day of school in Hendry County, they were greeted with some familiar faces. One of Harlem’s matriarchs was there, with friends she had gathered, handing out food and drinks to the students.

"God told me to get up and go feed my babies today, so thats what I’m gonna do," said Maxine Robinson Haynes, who has been an active member of the community of Harlem for 64 years. She has a passion for cooking and those who know her best sas she always enjoys life to the fullest.

“It’s amazing living here. I love the kids and being an outstanding neighbor,” said Haynes, who worked for both Eastside and Westside Elementary School Board for 23 years as supervisor. She prided herself on making sure both the kids and staff members at the schools always felt welcomed. She’s also known for feeding the neighborhood kids after school, while keeping an eye on them,  making sure they all stay safe.

“I’d like to say that as a member of the community, it’s important to make sure we have a safe place so that the kids can get the proper education they need to make a difference in this world.” Haynes added, “Positive attitudes can make a slight change to make home feel like home, just keep God first.”

“I've lived in Clewiston mostly all of my life, leaving only twice, but always found my way back home! I love living here!

I love the people here!” exclaimed Mahogany Auborn, who joined Haynes as they greeted the kids as they got off the bus.

“I met Mrs. Maxine 25 or 30 years ago. She was, and still is, one of our many  community mothers. Whenever and however she can lend a helping hand, or ear, she will.”

She’s a fourth generation Clewiston native, “And im raising the fifth and sixth generations here as well,” explained Auborn.

Auborn’s grandmother was Martha Ann Griffin, who worked as a nanny and housekeeper for Mr. Roland Martin for over 20 years. Her grandfather, Mr. John Griffin, was the person who made all of the iconic signs that directed people to Clewiston's famous Old South Bar-b-que Ranch.

“Everyone got to see them on the highway coming in and leaving out of sugartown,” said Auborn. “He also was one of the best pit masters there was.”

“I know we get a bad rep a lot about Clewiston but there are really some real genuinely good people here,” she said. “We have our misfortunes, as does every other town and city, but over all we have more good times than bad. Any kind of small gesture from your heart is a beautiful thing. It brings happiness to everyone involved and im happy to be a part of it.”

How did they come up with the idea to do this for the children? “Honestly, it was Mrs. Maxines idea. She saw me pulling up to the bus stop, and asked me if I would mind helping her serve the kids hot dogs while they got off the bus.” Auborn of course agreed. “Mrs. Charlene Mosely and her granddaughter, Nautica also joined in, but they left before we was able to get pictures of them.”

“This was my first time serving out food, but Mrs. Maxine is always fixing plates for people, even if its her personal dinners she will gladly share it,” Auborn added.

“She always takes care of everyone,” said one of the children who collected a few snacks before bouncing on down the road with her friends.

“She always makes us feel loved,” said another child. They were all smiles and laughter as they left.

Kindness, positivity, last day of school, matriarch, Harlem, Clewiston, feeding kids

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