It’s refreshing to hear stories of people doing the right thing, even in the toughest of circumstances. Elmer Alvarez is a shining example of this. Despite being homeless, Elmer found a $10,000 check in New Haven, Connecticut, and didn’t hesitate to return it to its rightful owner. His honesty and integrity ended up changing his life for the better.
Elmer’s situation wasn’t an easy one. Homelessness is a difficult and challenging experience for anyone to endure. However, despite his circumstances, Elmer made a conscious decision to turn his life around. He had been clean for three years and was determined to make the most of every opportunity that came his way.
When Elmer found the check, he immediately thought about the person it belonged to. He didn’t consider cashing it in for himself, despite the temptation. Instead, he set out to locate the owner and return the money. Roberta Hoskie, a real estate agent, had lost the check on a busy intersection and was unaware of its disappearance until the following day. When she discovered that Elmer had returned it, she was determined to find him and express her gratitude.
Roberta had expected to meet a well-dressed and clean-shaven man, but instead, she was greeted by Elmer and his friend, who had come along to help with translation as Elmer’s English wasn’t very good. Roberta was touched by Elmer’s honesty and kindness and was determined to repay his good deed in kind.
Roberta repaid Elmer’s honesty with a house and training, setting him on a path to a better life. Elmer’s decision to do the right thing and return the check not only changed his life, but it’s a reminder to all of us that honesty and integrity are always the best policy.
Roberta Hoskie, a successful real estate agent, was deeply touched when Elmer Alvarez, a homeless man, returned a lost $10,000 check to her. In fact, she was so moved by Elmer’s honesty that she set out to change the negative stereotypes associated with homelessness. Roberta streamed her meeting with Elmer on Facebook Live, hoping to shatter these myths and showcase the humanity of homeless individuals.
Roberta understood firsthand the struggles of homelessness, as she herself had lived in a shelter as a teenage mother with just $400 a month to support herself and her child. Despite the odds stacked against her, Roberta worked hard and pulled herself out of poverty, eventually starting her own successful real estate company.
Following her meeting with Elmer, Roberta went the extra mile to provide assistance to him. She went on to help him secure an apartment and covered his rent for a period of seven months. Additionally, she also facilitated his enrollment in real estate school, which has now enabled him to work as an employee at her company. Elmer and Roberta are now working together towards a new project, constructing a transitional home for homeless teenagers and young adults. The house will offer critical services that will help them reintegrate into society and build their future.
For Elmer, homelessness was a personal experience that he knew all too well. He recognized the struggles and pain that come with living on the street, and he was determined to make a positive impact in the lives of others facing the same challenges. “I know what it is to be homeless,” he said. “Nobody deserves to live like that.”
Elmer’s honesty and integrity in returning the lost check without expecting anything in return was truly remarkable. Roberta’s act of kindness towards Elmer has made a lasting impact on him, and he now has the life he deserves. When someone extends a helping hand, it can make a significant difference in the lives of others. Roberta and Elmer’s story is a reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and giving back to those in need.