This isn’t something I typically do. I’ve helped raise funds for people in the past, but never like this. This morning at 6:30 AM, while heading to my job, a young man collided with my vehicle. It was an accident, and though he was at fault, I could see it was unintentional. Before I even had the chance to shift my car into park, he was at my window, calling out to the heavens, pleading for my safety.

He appeared to be around 19 or 20 years old, and since I drive a larger SUV, my vehicle sustained some damage, but nothing terrible. However, his car was completely wrecked. We went through the necessary steps with the officer, but that’s where my heart really began to ache. He desperately begged the officer to allow him to keep his car instead of having it towed away. He told the officer that this car was all he had. With no family to turn to and feeling utterly alone, he confessed he had just spent his last dollar on a meal at a local diner.

He wasn’t trying to dramatize his situation. He repeatedly expressed gratitude that I wasn’t hurt and worried about my being late to work. In that moment, I knew I couldn’t rest easy without trying to help this young man. I’m sharing this in the hope that others might want to contribute a little kindness as well. I’m not aiming for anything extraordinary; raising $300 could provide him with some meals and perhaps a couple of much-needed outfits.

I understand that times are hard, and I hold no ill feelings toward anyone. But if you feel moved to offer even $5 or $10, it could make a difference in his life. I won’t embarrass him by sharing a photo; I’ll refer to him as Lucas instead. I sincerely believe he’s trying to serve a higher purpose and improve his circumstances. I’ve already assisted him in small ways, and I have more plans to support him.

If you can or wish to help, please consider sending him a little something, or share this message. I promise you, any amount could truly change Lucas’s life. And if you have any doubts about the genuineness of this situation, you might not know me well yet. Accidents can be severe, but he really did collide with the right person today. Thank you in advance for any kindness you can offer.