Several weeks ago, our office received a call from an individual in our community who wanted to help the victims of the fire that displaced 19 residents of 2518 Drummond St. She asked if United Way would accept a check from her and make sure that each resident was given $100 in cash.

Our office followed the instructions and contacted each individual. We inserted a card that indicated it was a gift from an angel. The looks on the faces of the people were priceless! Many were humbled by the generosity of a stranger and all were grateful. Several individuals requested a name because they wanted to send a personal note of thanks. The beauty of all of this is that this angel requested that her name not be given because the gift was one from the heart. She had experienced a house fire and knew the devastation that this one incident could bring to an individual.

I have shared this story with so many individuals but hopefully others will read it. She had no personal agenda. She did not want to be recognized for her kindness. She was interested in showing her love for others and she did it out of concern for her fellow man. To me, this is a lesson that should be taught every day of our lives to our children. We need to be more about giving and expecting nothing in return for our deed.

During these tough times for many I am pleased to know that we have angels in our community who live and work among us.

Barbara Tolliver

Executive director

United Way

Vicksburg