When dealing with a minor or major problem, most people anticipate that their families and friends will step up to help. But that’s not always how the world works. Sometimes, help comes from an unexpected source.
Living on a tight budget
Especially as some people age, money becomes increasingly tight. To get by each month, they only spend what they have to. So, misplacing or losing any amount would be devastating.
Meet Kenneth Peting
At 94 years old, Kenneth is a very fortunate man. He has his health, drives a car, and still lives on his own. But like a lot of elderly people, he has to be careful with his money.
Unfortunately, while shopping at a local store called H-E-B, something horrible happened.
The money’s gone
As Kenneth explained, he had somehow lost $800. To him, it might as well have been a million dollars. Making matters worse, he didn’t know if he lost it inside the store or somewhere in the parking lot.
He’s paid his dues
Kenneth goes on to say that he works really hard for his money so to him, this was a huge loss. As a World War II veteran, people in the town where he lives admire him. He’s independent but also super likable and caring.
In a panic
As soon as he realized the money was gone, Kenneth panicked. The first thing he did was go back to his car where he began to dig in every crevice hoping to find it. But he didn’t have any luck.
An unusual encounter
That’s when a woman named Cindy Gonzalez (who Kenneth didn’t know) saw that he was upset. She walked over to see if she could help. That’s when he explained his dilemma.
Searching together
Cindy immediately began to help Kenneth search for his money. She even asked him if she could check his pockets, which he didn’t mind at all. But even as a team, they came up empty-handed.
Using social media
This sweet woman was in tears, knowing how distraught Kenneth was. That’s when she decided to post the story on her Facebook page. It didn’t take long at all before other strangers from the community began to donate money that would go to this elderly man.
An outpouring of love and support
Quickly, the lost $800 was recouped thanks to generous donations. But people didn’t stop at that amount. In total, Cindy raised $3,705 for Kenneth.
The big surprise
After putting the money in a white envelope, Cindy drove to Kenneth’s home. She then told him what the community had done, stating that he’s given so much and now, it’s time for him to get back. He was beyond shocked and eternally grateful.
As if they were longtime friends, Kenneth and Cindy embraced. She then told Kenneth she was going to adopt him as her “pa pa.” This story shows that there are a lot of wonderful people in the world who are more than willing to step up to help someone in need, even if that individual is a stranger.
You can see the story unfold by clicking on the video below!
It’s inspiring, sweet, and a good reminder that we should all do right by others. Just a warning … you might need to grab a tissue.
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