In a heartwarming act of kindness, a stranger in a Wal-Mart checkout line covered the cost of a teacher’s classroom supplies, totaling nearly $100.
Jessica Collins, a dedicated seventh-grade teacher from San Antonio, Texas, was preparing for the upcoming school year by purchasing essential materials for her students. With her husband by her side, she had gathered an impressive amount of supplies—including 200 notebooks—when she reached the register. “Many of my students often express that they can’t afford their school supplies, or need to wait for their parents’ paychecks,” Collins shared with a local news outlet. “I just want to alleviate any stress they might feel.”
Sadly, many teachers like Collins spend over $500 of their own money each year on classroom supplies due to budget constraints. This often includes necessities like tissues, hand sanitizer, and basic items such as pencils and folders.
As Collins was checking out, the man behind her, whom she later learned was named Mike Thompson, inquired about her purchase. After hearing that she was a teacher, he asked the cashier for the total amount. Without hesitation, he decided to cover the entire bill of $97.80. “It just didn’t sit right with me that she should have to foot the bill for that,” Thompson explained. “Teachers deserve recognition and support.” This selfless gesture left Collins in tears, and she was unable to get Thompson’s name at the time.
When Collins’s story gained traction on social media, local news outlet KENS 5 was able to track down Thompson, who shared his inspiring philosophy. “I’ve kept this $100 bill just waiting for the right moment to help someone in need,” he said. His challenge to others? “Whatever you can afford… if you want to make the world a better place, love thy neighbor and do your part.”
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In summary, a small act of kindness can go a long way. Mike Thompson’s generosity not only provided much-needed supplies for Jessica Collins’s classroom but also serves as an inspiring reminder that we can all contribute to making our communities better.