Samaritans reveal the power of unity
The response to the Facebook post has been described as overwhelming, as residents of varying cultures showed what can be accomplished when compassion takes over.
A desperate mother’s plea revealed the true strength hidden in a close-knit community.
Bernice Hurter had few expectations when she posted a message on the Newcastle Classifieds Facebook page, appealing for beds for her daughter and granddaughters, the three of who had urgent need of a place to stay.
In her own words, Mrs Hurter said posting the appeal was a chance she took.
Already the guardian of four children, Mrs Hurter explained financial constraints meant she had no spare funds to purchase extra beds for her own family.
Enter the Samaritans of Newcastle.
The response to the Facebook post has been described as overwhelming, as residents of varying cultures showed what can be accomplished when compassion takes over.
Within minutes, two beds had been pledged by a local businessman.
“I could not believe the response – I did not expect it at all,” Mrs Hurter said.
In response to her Facebook post, pledges from fellow Newcastillians included a third bed, food, clothing, and transport of the beds to Mrs Hurter’s home.
“I can’t describe it. People normally make nasty comments but there was not even one. It was truly amazing,” Mrs Hurter said through tears.
Although hesitant to reveal her identity in the media, Mrs Hurter said she felt it important to acknowledge the wonderful people of Newcastle.
She thanked Nikole, Antoinette, Rukshana, Sophia, Mohamed and Ibrahim in particular.
“They are all truly angels.”
This heart-warming story is best summarised by a comment from Eddie Horn: “Thank you, people of Newcastle, for showing such love and caring. It restores my faith in humanity tremendously. May God bless all of you.”
