Homeless man given thousands after using last $20 to help stranded woman

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Wednesday, November 22, 2017
VIDEO: Paying it forward after a stranger helps
Watch the report from Action News at 5 a.m. on Nov. 22, 2017.

PHILADELPHIA -- It's an incredible story of paying it forward after a random act of kindness.



Kate McClure's car ran out of gas one night on I-95, on her way into Philadelphia.



She got out of her car and started making her way towards the nearest gas station. That's when she met Johnny.



"Johnny sits on the side of the road every day, holding a sign. He saw me pull over and knew something was wrong. He told me to get back in the car and lock the doors. A few minutes later, he comes back with a red gas can," Kate said.



He had used his last $20 to help Kate make it home safe.



"Johnny did not ask me for a dollar, and I couldn't repay him at that moment because I didn't have any cash," Kate said.



She was determined to pay him back. She started by stopping by his spot and repaying him for the gas, she gave him a jacket, gloves, a hat, and warm socks.



However, Kate wanted to do more. So, she created a gofundme page to help him out.



Kate is using the money to help Johnny find a place to rent, get a car and a job. Kate later discovered that Johnny is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, as well as a former firefighter and paramedic.



"(I) truly believe that all Johnny needs is one little break. Hopefully with your help I can be the one to give it to him," she said.



Since then more than 1,000 people have donated, and more than $58,000 has been raised.



If you would like to help Johnny too, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/hvv4r-paying-it-forward

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