When we encounter someone in need, we are faced with a simple but powerful choice. We can either look away, mumble something under our breath, and walk on by—or we can choose to help. It may seem like a small decision in the moment, but it can carry immense meaning. Most of us find it easier to help those we’re close to—family, friends, neighbors. But when the person in need is a stranger, especially someone experiencing homelessness, the decision becomes more complicated. Many people hesitate. Maybe it’s fear. Maybe it’s the belief that someone else will step up instead. Or maybe it’s the assumption that whatever we offer will be misused. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that those experiencing homelessness are some of the most vulnerable people in our society—and they often need our help the most.

One young man who understood this deeply is Matthew Resendez, a Burger King employee whose simple act of kindness touched many hearts. The event took place back in 2018, during one of Matthew’s evening shifts at the restaurant. That night, a homeless man walked into the fast food chain. For Matthew, it wasn’t an unusual occurrence. He had served homeless customers before. But this man asked a question that stood out: “What can I get for 50 cents?”

In that moment, Matthew had the option to respond honestly but bluntly—“Nothing.” After all, 50 cents wouldn’t buy anything on the menu. Not even a small side. But instead of turning the man away or brushing him off, Matthew made a different choice. He didn’t hesitate. He rang up the most filling meal on the menu and paid for it himself using his own debit card.

Matthew didn’t make a big deal out of it. He simply handed the man the receipt, told him to take a seat, and assured him that his meal would be ready shortly. That could have been the end of the story—an anonymous act of quiet generosity. But fate had something more in store.

One of the other diners in the restaurant noticed what Matthew had done. Touched by his compassion and willingness to help someone in need, the woman decided to act, too. She not only wrote a heartfelt message to the company praising Matthew for his kindness, but she also gave him a \$100 tip as a thank-you. Her response was more than just generosity—it was a ripple effect of kindness, set off by one young man’s decision to treat a stranger with dignity.

When Matthew’s mother, Michelle Resendez, heard what had happened, she was overwhelmed with pride. She took to Facebook to share her son’s story with the world. In her post, she wrote: “Proud mom moment! Matthew worked this evening and a homeless gentleman walked into the restaurant with 50 cents and asked if there was anything he could buy. Matthew asked him what he would order if he could, and the man said anything to help with his hunger pains. So Matthew rang him up for a hearty meal and then used his own debit card to pay for the man’s meal. He handed him the receipt and told him to relax and take a seat. The story could end there and it would already be a happy ending. But apparently, a woman watched my son during his random act of kindness. Not only did she write the company to let them know about the caring employee they had working for them, she also rewarded my son with a very generous tip! So proud to be his mom and I can pat myself on the back knowing that I’ve played a part in raising this big-hearted young man.”

Her words echo the thoughts many people had upon reading the story. In a world that can sometimes feel cold and indifferent, moments like these remind us of the power of kindness. Matthew didn’t know he was being watched. He wasn’t expecting recognition. He just saw a human being in need and decided to help.

It’s likely that another employee might have turned the man away without a second thought. But Matthew made a different choice. He saw past the man’s appearance and circumstances and responded with empathy. That kind of character is rare—and it’s exactly what makes stories like this so powerful.

We often talk about karma as something that takes time. But in this case, the reward for doing the right thing came swiftly. One small act of compassion sparked another, and the impact multiplied.

The original Facebook post continues to be shared, reminding people everywhere that kindness can happen in unexpected places—even in a fast food restaurant during a regular shift. And that one kind gesture has the potential to inspire others to act, too.

So many people believe their small actions don’t matter, but Matthew’s story proves otherwise. Whether it’s a smile, a meal, or simply treating someone with respect, these moments can create real change—not just for the person being helped, but for everyone who witnesses or hears about it.

Let this story serve as a reminder. The next time you encounter someone who needs help, think about the difference you could make. Choose to act with compassion. Choose to be like Matthew. It doesn’t take much to be kind, but it can mean everything to someone who is struggling.

Matthew’s story is more than just a feel-good moment. It’s a reflection of what happens when we choose generosity over indifference. And while not all good deeds are noticed, this one was—and the world is better for it.

Let’s share this story, not just to praise Matthew, but to encourage more of us to do the same. Kindness is contagious, and each of us has the power to spread it.