Bonneau liked what he was doing and so did several other passengers. They thought wouldn’t it be nice to do something for him for Christmas, possibly get some donations. So Bonneau put the wheels into motion and contacted former Steeler Mike Logan for the possibility of some Steeler gear for the kids. Logan said, “I can do you one better, Thanksgiving is right around the corner, let’s do Thanksgiving.” He mentioned a program that Carmi Family Restaurant has. Carmi’s is a delightful soul food restaurant located on Western Avenue on the North side. The restaurant has a program where they donate a complete meal to two families a year at Thanksgiving. The family has to apply and Carmi determines who will receive the meals.
After presenting the story of the father and his children to Carmi, within a very short period of time they determined that this gentleman and his children would be one of the two families to receive the meal. Carmi said that he would get a complete thanksgiving dinner already prepared except for the turkey, the turkey would be seasoned and ready to put in the oven.
Reportedly the man cried and did not understand why people who did not really know him or were not related to him were trying to help him. It appears that his character and his determination to raise his children in the way they should go were shining through every time he boarded the bus. Bonneau said she believes in passing on blessings and is planning on taking up a collection for Christmas.
I think that it is wonderful to hear about people putting the giving into Thanksgiving. You never know who is watching you and who might what to help someone in a bad situation. With the help of two other passengers they have made a thanksgiving for this family and Christmas is in the works.
(Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
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