If you frequent the same stores, it’s easy to get to know some of the workers if you take a moment to kindly converse with them.
But for some people, they take this kindness to the next level.
In a heartwarming gesture, a woman in Wisconsin extended a hand of generosity to a grocery store worker after discovering he had been living without hot water or heat for more than a year.
Life throws challenges at everyone, with some facing more hardships than others.
Often, people keep their struggles private, either out of embarrassment or to avoid burdening family, friends, and acquaintances.
This makes it hard to truly understand the silent battles others might be enduring.
Amidst such struggles, a simple act of kindness can be transformative.
Stephanie Peach, a regular customer at Pick ‘N Save and a nurse by profession, became an earth angel for Dennis Raiten, a 65-year-old employee at the store in Monroe, Wisconsin.
Dennis, cherished by both colleagues and customers, is known for his dedication and warm demeanor.
Many describe him as “helpful, friendly, and hardworking,” and he never misses an opportunity to spread kindness to anyone whom he interacts with.
Dennis works at the self-checkout station in the store, which is where Stephanie got to know him.
Stephanie fondly referred to the employee as a “lovely older gentleman.”
When she found out about Dennis’ 15-month ordeal without basic amenities, she felt compelled to step in.
She told WMTV:
“I just got to know him and one day he told me that he hoped it stayed nice out because it’s nice and warm out and he didn’t have any heat. I slowly gathered more information and then just kind of went from there.”
Stephanie came up with the sweetest plan to help Dennis.
In a touching gesture, Stephanie initiated a GoFundMe campaign with the aim of purchasing a new boiler for Dennis.
She shared on the fundraising page,
“He is always the nicest person and will remember things about customers and chat with them when they come back the next time.”
She also expressed:
“No 65 year old should have to take cold showers and not have heat.”
With the help of donations from kind community members and strangers, Stephanie was able to raise enough money to get him a new boiler.
The joy was present when Stephanie presented the gift to Dennis at his workplace.
Overwhelmed by her gesture, Dennis shared with WMTV,
“I’m just flabbergasted. I guess, she’s one of the few people that leaves me speechless. So, she did that.”
But Stephanie’s kindness didn’t stop there.
She wanted to continue helping Dennis, who she considers to be like “family.”
She updated the GoFundMe page and increased the goal, mentioning, “Dennis’ bathroom needs a lot more work than we anticipated. Help us get him the bathroom he deserves!”
The outpouring of support has been immense.
The campaign has already surpassed the goal of $12,000, with contributions exceeding $13,800.
It goes to show that there are LOTS of good people out there, and a little kindness can go far!
Watch the video below to see Stephanie present the gift to Dennis at work!
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