Generous woman uses her retirement money to recognize the hard work of public service staff

Being empathetic and open to help is one of the most important qualities to have in this life. Not everyone has the best conditions in life, and therefore whenever god blesses one with it, they should try to make other people's lives better with it. This is exactly what Patricia Phelps is doing with her retirement money, reports ABC Action. She is using the money to feed the wonderful people around her. This initiative ensures that no one sleeps on an empty stomach during the holidays, uniquely spreading the Christmas cheer. This is not the first year the woman has been giving back to society. She has been at it for almost a decade.

It has not been easy at all to bring it all together. Every year she has to save up her retirement money meticulously to kickstart the initiative. The reason she chooses to distribute food is a personal one. "Food always makes everybody happy, I think!” Patricia Phelps said in her interview. She further added that the whole idea is to give back to the community of which she has been a member for many years. The gesture during the holidays makes people feel special and come together based on love and togetherness. The fact that someone is looking after them when all of the world is enjoying their tastiest treats is heartwarming.

Throughout the year, she is helped immensely by the authorities who share her love for the community. Therefore, she decided to extend a small gesture to dozens of Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts employees and picked up their tab for lunch. “They put up with so much stuff. I'm just grateful that they sit there and they smile and just continue to do a wonderful job,” Phelps added. This was her way of expressing gratitude for their work.

Phelps absolutely adores the happiness that comes on the faces of those she feeds. Moreover, the joy they spread amongst each other during this activity is also incomparable. It reflects the true essence of humanity, which is helping each other in times of need. It seems as if they are getting their Christmas blessings all at the same time. The woman notes how after receiving food, all of them go in for a hug which warms her heart. “A hug, it releases endorphins. So that way, you're happy, and if I can make them happy for a few hours, that is my blessing,” she shared. The happiness she gives to them also makes her own Christmas.

This endeavor also allows the creation of genuine human bonds. As someone who has worked since 15 years of age, Phelps has seen how many people go without even a mere "thank you" through their days. They are left without any human connection for years on a stretch. Her gesture allows her to interact with people from a variety of backgrounds and formulate strong relationships. She concluded with a simple message, “Merry Christmas to everybody, and share the love, ok?”