Last month, Rashawn Copeland, the author of “Start Where You Are,” had an encounter that he won’t soon forget.
While he was filming a TikTok video for his new book, Rashawn stumbled upon a man named Jessie and his 3-year-old son TJ. The two of them were sitting on a curb in the freezing cold. While TJ played with his toy cars, Jessie opened up about their situation: They were homeless, and he had just relapsed on drugs.
Moved by their difficult situation, Rashawn took to TikTok, posting videos of their conversation and sharing their story with his community.
Soon after, over 14 million people heard about this family in need and began looking for ways to reach out and offer help. So they started a GoFundMe to do just that!
Their campaign has since raised over $23,000! The money will go toward meeting the family’s basic needs and giving them support to get back on their feet. Not only that, but it will also be put toward a rehab center so Jessie can continue his recovery.
“Child homelessness is a story we ALL can end TOGETHER,” Rashawn said. “They are not abandoned. They are not forgotten. They matter and so do you!”
Since then, Rashawn has continued his relationship with the family, inviting them into his home to share meals, Bible studies, and unconditional love.
But perhaps the most beautiful part of this story is the love, support, and generosity TJ and his dad have been shown from strangers near and far.
It’s amazing to see what happens when people share the compassion in their hearts with those who need it most!
Share this story and inspire someone in your life today.
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