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LIBERTY TWP. — Oprah is coming to town.

Not the popular talk-show host herself, but an "Oprah Winfrey Show" film crew will visit Liberty Twp. Sunday, April 13, to capture the generosity generated by one boy's birthday wish.

That boy, 4-year-old Drew Friend, asked his parents if he could give the new presents he would receive for his April 17 birthday to a family in need.

Inspired by Drew's idea, Royal Redeemer Lutheran Church launched "Drew's Big Give," which so far has provided three area families in need with everything from clothing, furniture and bedding to appliances, food and gift cards.

The event is modeled after Winfrey's similarly named show, which pits contestants against one another to see who can be the biggest philanthropist.

The show's crew is scheduled to film the Rev. Joel Morgan, Royal Redeemer's pastor, during a Sunday morning service as he urges his congregation and the community to participate in the "give."

The crew also is expected to film Drew accepting donations in the church's parking lot.

A spokesman for Harpo Productions, the company that produces the show, said Drew and his family are scheduled to appear on an April 21 episode that will showcase "big gives" happening nationwide.

Shannon Friend said she and her husband are proud of their son and thrilled that so many people want to help.

Drew, on the other hand, does not understand what the big deal is about his big give.

"He's like, 'Well, I just wanted to give some toys to people,' " Friend said. "He doesn't really thinks it's special. He said, 'Anybody can do this.' "

For more information, contact the church at (513) 779-4740 or royalredmr@fuse.net.

Contact this reporter at (513) 755-5126 or

eschwartzberg@coxohio.com.

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