A group of students at Providence College in Rhode Island found out that a security guard named James hadn't seen his family in Nigeria for 11 years. WCVB-TV reports Freshman student Brandon Reichert wanted James to be able to go visit them because "James is just the kindest soul anyone has ever met in this building. He means so much to us he's so important.
Brandon helped set up a go fund me page with several other students. They each made small donations and asked their parents and others to help as well. That was on Feb 29th. They hit their goal of $3000 in 24 hours! Brandon says "It was amazing how fast everyone connected and were able to put it together for him.”
Dean of Students Sean Sears says "It brought tears to my eyes. Such an act of kindness. It was such a great reminder of the good our Friars are bringing into the world and a great reminder of how we can all do a small act of kindness every day that can make a difference,"
James, was deeply touched by the gesture. The students presented him with the funds, allowing him to plan a trip to Nigeria to reunite with his family this June. The emotional moment was captured in a photo showing James overwhelmed with gratitude.
Moved by James' story, people have continued to donate and over $25-thousand has been raised for him so far.