Compassionate Jye benefits burns units

THE whole world could learn a few of life's lessons from young Jye Rowlings.

Despite living with Down Syndrome, this 10-year-old Toowoomba boy has touched the hearts of many in recent days with his fund-raising efforts to help Sydney burns victim Sophie Delezio.

"Jye was watching Backyard Blitz and they did a makeover on the yard of the little girl who was severely burned when a car crashed into her day care centre," mum Kathy said.

"The next morning I found him tipping the coins from my purse into an ice-cream container, and he said he was raising money for the girl who was burnt.

"He's always been a very compassionate little boy and cares for others ? everyone loves Jye."

Since hearing of Jye's fundraising endeavours, many people ? including his grandparents, teachers and students from Gabbinbar State School, local businesses and the Wilsonton Uniting Church congregation ? have pitched in to help.

In accordance with a request made on the television show, money raised will be donated to the specialist burns units in hospitals across Australia.

"Jye wants the money to go straight to Sophie, but I think we will send her family a card," Ms Rowlings said.

"I hope we can raise about $300 to donate to the burns units."

With just $70 in the kitty so far, there is still some way to go in reaching this goal ? and Jye knows it.

"We need lots of dollars," he said.

"It's money for little girl burnt bad."

Anyone wishing to help Jye (and ultimately other children like Sophie) with his fund-raising efforts should ring 0408453761.