In life, we all encounter difficult times and challenging periods. During those moments, the love and support of those around us become essential in helping us get back on our feet. This is especially true for the brave souls who selflessly serve their country, asking for no reward in return.
Unfortunately, many veterans find themselves struggling upon returning from duty. In some cases, the benefits they receive may not be sufficient to sustain them, leaving them uncertain about their next steps as they transition back to civilian life.
Larry Robeson, a Vietnam veteran, knew these struggles all too well. Reports indicate that Larry, who could barely afford basic necessities, found himself in a difficult situation with no clear path forward.
Fate had other plans for Larry when he crossed paths with the Fox 5 Surprise Squad at a grocery store in Las Vegas. The Surprise Squad was there to cover people’s grocery bills, and they approached Larry when they noticed him in the store.
Despite his financial difficulties, Larry had taken his friend Stephanie, a disabled fellow veteran, to the store. Stephanie shared that she was buying food for herself and her dogs but was down to her last $50, unsure of what to do next.
Dave Hall, the reporter leading the Surprise Squad, offered to cover Stephanie’s groceries, bringing relief and gratitude to her. But Dave also noticed Larry standing quietly behind Stephanie.
It turned out that Larry, a friend of Stephanie’s husband, had established the Bones for Blankets club many years earlier. The club’s mission was to donate blankets to homeless veterans who found themselves on the streets after their service to their country.
Larry’s motivation for starting the club was heart-wrenching; he wanted to prevent more veterans from suffering the same fate as three comrades who had tragically frozen to death. The club’s actions aimed to ensure that no more veterans would face such dire circumstances.
Larry explained that Stephanie’s husband was often away as a truck driver, and he offered her companionship and support, especially considering the challenges she faced due to her disability.
Dave Hall, deeply moved by Larry’s story and his commitment to helping fellow veterans, was determined that Larry wouldn’t leave the store without the Surprise Squad team paying for his groceries.
Although Larry had only intended to purchase dish soap and candy, Dave insisted, “You served us. It’s our turn to serve you now.”
Larry was given the opportunity to go around the store and select whatever he needed. The total bill came to $278, and Larry wiped tears from his eyes as Dave and the team settled it.
Overwhelmed by the unexpected act of kindness, Larry shared, “This is just like overwhelming. I’ve been taking care of myself since I was 13.”
Larry’s story serves as a poignant reminder that the support and care we provide to those who have sacrificed for their country can make a significant difference in their lives, especially during challenging times.
A former prison guard from Mississippi loses her job for caring for an inmate’s newborn, and her perspective
Roberta Bell’s journey is a moving example of the courage and strength of compassion, demonstrating the enormous influence that one person can have when motivated by empathy. Roberta, a 58-year-old mother of five and grandma of eight who resides in the charming city of Vicksburg, Mississippi, is regarded by many as a hero. Her life took an unexpected turn this year, showing the world the power of love and bravery to transform lives.
Roberta met pregnant convict Katie Bourgeois, who was almost out of prison, while she was a correctional officer at the Louisiana Transitional Center for Women. Katie was in a terrible predicament because she had no relatives to support her after her kid was born. Roberta took the crucial choice to take care of the baby until Katie could return home while Katie was unable to do so.
There were, however, repercussions to this choice. Roberta was sacked from her job at the correctional facility after her supervisor saw a conflict of interest in her conduct. For Roberta, though, it was a minimal cost. Kayson, Katie’s son, was born just over a week after she lost her job. Roberta had been looking forward to his visit to the hospital. She brought him home, clothed him tenderly, and held him in her arms, showing him the tenderness and love of a mother.
Kayson was under Roberta’s care for two months before Katie was able to see her son again. Even though Roberta was going through a difficult time personally, her compassion and selflessness were evident when she said goodbye to the infant to whom she had been so close. Millions of people were moved by her heartfelt and real narrative of generosity, which struck a chord with people everywhere.
Donations poured in from people moved by her story; diapers, formula, and other necessities arrived. Numerous kind presents from strangers adorned Roberta’s living room. Even more astonishingly, their contributions added up to an incredible $90,000. Even though she was unemployed, Roberta kept giving back, using some of the money she was given to assist a fellow pregnant prisoner who was having financial difficulties.
That was not the end of Roberta’s quest. Rather, it opened a new chapter in her life. Since then, she has started a new project that she is very enthusiastic about called The Serenity House. The Serenity House, which is situated in the serene Mississippi countryside, is being renovated to serve as a haven for women reintegrating into society after serving time in jail. Roberta is committed to giving these women a place where they can find direction, support, and a feeling of belonging, just as much as she had loved her job at the prison.
Roberta gladly answers every call that comes in asking for her assistance; her phone is always vibrating. Her experience is a prime illustration of how one individual, driven by compassion, understanding, and a steadfast faith in second chances, may significantly impact the lives of others.
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