In time for the holidays comes the incredible story of a stranger using GoFundMe to change a live.
Encountering 88-year-old Army Veteran Ed Bambas working at a local grocery store in Detroit, Australian content creator and TikToker Samuel Weidenhofer decided to try and raise some money to allow the man to retire.
The veteran, who lost his wife some years ago, works 8 hours a day 5 days a week having not received the pension he should have as a veteran.
But Americans being one of the giv-iest breeds on the planet, the GoFundMe exploded with interest, such that, despite the moonshot goal being set at $1 million, a life-changing $1.5 million has been donated in just a few days.
A Mr. William Ackman donated $10,000 to this veteran who he never met, but it’s reflective of the overall response, both in the donations and the words of support section, where between veterans and active duty servicemembers, and the general public at large, the message was clear: we’ve got your six.
“Every dollar we raise will go directly to supporting him: helping with living expenses, medical care, and the small joys that make life meaningful,” Weidenhofer wrote.
“Ed fought for his country, he worked his whole life, and now it’s our turn to fight for him. If you’ve ever been moved by someone’s courage, if you believe our elders and veterans deserve dignity, please consider contributing. Even sharing this story can help us reach more people who want to make a difference.”
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Having met the fundraising goal and how, Weidenhofer is working around the clock to set up a bank account and trust in Bambas’ name where the money can be deposited safely and securely.
In a December 2nd update, Weidenhofer said that there is a planned surprise event for Bambas, who doesn’t know he will be able to retire with dignity after a life of hard work.
WATCH Weidenhofer’s first meeting with Bambas below that went viral…
@itssozer 88 year old veteran still working.. 😭❤️ (donate in B1O) #love #kind #veteran ♬ original sound - Samuel Weidenhofer
SHARE This Touching Story With Your Friends, And Stay Tuned For The Reveal…