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CHARLOTTE – The news is getting worse for those without homes during this record-cold December. A report just released by the U.S. Conference of Mayors showed the homeless population overall growing 14 percent in Charlotte. For homeless families, that number jumped 36 percent.

However, out of this bad news comes an inspiring story.

A 10-year-old girl started a mission three weeks ago to help raise $1,000 for homeless families but raised so much more.

Charlotte Emergency Housing is a homeless shelter for working families.

"We are one of the only options for families to stay together during homelessness," said Kelly Lynn, Director of Development Charlotte Emergency Housing.

This Christmas story started three weeks ago when Cathryn Clark's church started a giving program. Ironically, the bible message that Sunday was very relevant.

"That text was from Isiah that a little child will lead them and it certainly has been the case that Cathryn's led our church," said Park Road Baptist Church Pastor Russ Dean.

The fourth grader's original goal was $1,000.

"I thought it was ambitious," said her mother, Elisa Clark.

But Cathryn's story of giving spread.

"It just ballooned from there," said Lynn. "She got more checks. We got more checks."

Thursday, Cathryn wrote a $4,000 check to the shelter. Another $2,200 came directly to the non-profit. Then, Retiva heard about Cathryn's story and wanted to help.

"We wrote the check in the car, but from the car to here, somehow the donation increased again," said Don Nicholas, CEO of Revita Anti-Aging Center. "She got more out of us in the last few minutes because we have to match it."

The final tally was $10,000.

"That's just huge for us," said Lynn.

"I was very overwhelmed, but it was a blessing," said Cathryn Clark.

Charlotte Emergency Housing is still accepting donations to help these homeless families in need.