NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A college student is nearly $2,000 richer and it's all thanks to the kindness of strangers. Charles Jarreau is studying engineering at a community college in Knoxville.
He was not expecting a text from Leslie Fisher. Fisher accidentally texted the student checking on a turkey order.
Jarreau responded with, "Hi Leslie, unfortunately, I believe you have the wrong number; I'm a broke college kid in Knoxville, not a turkey dealer."
Fisher immediately apologized and Charles responded by wishing her a Happy Thanksgiving and saying he hopes she finds her turkey. In return, Fisher offered to buy Jarreau lunch by sending money to his cash app.
"I have a son in college, and I know exactly how he feels being a broke college student," said Fisher.
When Fisher posted the screenshot of the text on Facebook as a joke, she and Jarreau didn't expect the response from her friends and strangers.
"I received the text yesterday and thought it was extremely nice for her to want to buy me lunch. She posted the exchange on Facebook and since then I've received dozens of donations," said Jarreau.
Fisher's friends and even strangers were sending Charles money just because no questions asked.
"Right now, people have sent me close to $2,000, I felt a little bit guilty about getting all this money," said Jarreau, "Some of her friends mentioned paying it forward, so I plan on donating to some local charities like Second Harvest and giving some of that money to Leslie and her son."
Fisher was emotional to hear Jarreau wanted to pay it back to her.
"The intent was to show this young man that this is who I am as a parent and as a person," said Fisher.
Jarreau says he is thankful for the kindness of strangers.
"I want to thank the community and Leslie again; you've given me something to be grateful for this Thanksgiving," he said.
It's safe to say the two are no longer strangers. Charles is now part of Leslie's family.
