First responders don’t expect gratitude, but that doesn’t mean they don’t appreciate it. In the UK, one little boy is making sure ambulance crews feel seen. Eight-year-old Finley-Jay has taken it upon himself to deliver handmade goody bags to paramedics, filled with snacks, coffee, and small surprises. “I am so proud of him – he is such a kind little boy,” says his mother, Laura.
Finley-Jay got the idea from Hit the Ambulance gamers, a Facebook group dedicated to spreading positivity. The page’s About section explains: “This page was set up… to help boost morale and brighten someone’s day with a ‘HIT.’” A HIT can be anything from a small gift to a simple wave. What started as a way to support ambulance workers has expanded to include postal workers, delivery drivers, and other frontline employees.
But for Finley-Jay, the original mission stuck. He now makes regular trips to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, handing out his care packages to paramedics coming and going.
A small act of kindness makes a big difference to ambulance crews
The bags are simple but meaningful. They include tea, coffee, sweets, biscuits, chocolates, and pens—little things to get through a long shift. Finley-Jay also puts together themed bags for holidays like Easter and Halloween. “Whenever we have some spare time you can find Finley up at the hospital by A&E handing out little bags that he’s made up,” his mother said.
At this point, Finley-Jay is a familiar face among local paramedics. “All the ambulance staff know him now,” Laura added. His generosity hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Will Gould of West Midlands Ambulance Service shared how much the gesture means to crews. “Our staff don’t do the job for thanks, but having someone like Finley handing out goody bags certainly makes the role even more worthwhile.”
Even hospital leadership has recognized his efforts. Hayley Flavell, Director of Nursing at Royal Shrewsbury, said, “What a lovely and kind gesture by Finley – his goody bags will make all the difference to the ambulance crews that arrive at our hospital.”
Finley-Jay’s project is entirely community-driven. His family and friends donate the items, and he puts the bags together himself. He has no plans to stop anytime soon.
A small effort can go a long way. To the paramedics on the receiving end, Finley-Jay’s goody bags are more than just snacks—they’re a reminder that someone appreciates their work. As long as he has time and supplies, this eight-year-old isn’t slowing down.
