HAYDEN — Gabi Martin is smiling today.

Thank Crest toothpaste.

Gabi, a Hayden 12-year-old, recently launched Project Help the Homeless, a mission she thought of — all on her own — to distribute care packages for the homeless of the Inland Northwest.

Gabi's work was the subject of a June 17 Press article. In it, Gabi’s mother, Kim, said she and her daugher had contacted big companies for donations. Nestle was a "maybe." Colgate said it only gives to big businesses and organizations.

Crest, for its part, didn’t hesitate to pitch in.

"We saw Gabi’s story and were inspired by the way she’s helping spread hope and smiles," said Marchoe Northern, Proctor & Gamble’s brand director for oral care in North America. "We believe that smiles are a universal act of kindness and a powerful human connector that can improve somebody’s day. We’re happy to support her mission to make a difference."

Crest contacted Gabi and Kim to let them know that the oral hygiene giant will happily donate 500 tubes of Crest toothpaste and 500 Oral-B toothbrushes to Gabi's cause.

"I was happy and excited," Gabi said. "I can make more bags."

Kim said that since the Press article was published, they've received emails from people in North Idaho who want to help.

"They've been so generous to either give us money or give us travel samples, which has been super helpful," Kim said. "One lady is giving us flashlights that her husband had collected. Another lady is going out to buy socks for us to put into the care packages."

Project Help the Homeless is seeking nonprofit status, Kim reported, so that an account can be made for monetary donations.

She said Gabi also plans to find homeless encampments in the area and deliver the care packages — and pancake breakfasts — to brighten the days of those hidden away from society.

Gabi said the donation from Crest and the kindness already shown by so many was unexpected.

"Thank you," she said.

Info: projecthelpthe homeless19@yahoo.com