"Their little angel:" At just two years old, Lola made it her mission to help Milwaukee's homeless

MILWAUKEE -- While many spent their Thanksgiving holiday weekend thinking ahead to Christmas, and maybe even getting a jump-start on that holiday shopping, a local girl is focused on fulfilling her own wish list as she works to help those in need.

"Backpacks. We`ve gotten gloves. We`ve gotten boots, blankets, coats," Carrie Kudronowicz said.

Carrie and her daughter Lola are collecting donations for the homeless and needy.

"We have so many compassionate people in our lives," Carrie Kudronowicz said.

This all began back in 2010, when Lola, who was just two years old, had a big wish -- to help the homeless.

"I just wanted to buy them all houses so they could all sleep and stay warm instead of staying outside," Lola Kudronowicz said.

The idea developed on a blustery winter day, on the way home from daycare.

"There was a person crossing the street in front of us who had a stroller full of belongings. She was in the back seat and asked me about that. I tried as best I could to explain to a two-year-old what it means to be homeless," Carrie Kudronowicz said.

Right then and there, Carrie and Lola decided to help comfort those in need however they could.

"Every year, we contact the shelter and see what they are in need of," Carrie Kudronowicz said.

And every year, they've received an overwhelming response from friends, family members, and strangers -- who all want to help.

This mother and daughter have helped to provide more than just winter outerwear. They're giving people a sense that the community cares.

"They call her their little angel and they are just so grateful," Carrie Kudronowicz said.

The donations collected by Carrie and Lola Kudronowicz go to guests at the "Open Door Cafe" -- a shelter in downtown Milwaukee.

Last year, Lola and her mom were able to provide more than 600 items.