ORLANDO, Fla. – In a story that seems straight out of a Christmas movie, a local woman and a senior citizen formed an unexpected connection through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program.
Janelle, a longtime supporter of the holiday initiative, adopted a card last year belonging to Frederick, a resident of the Salvation Army’s Senior Towers.
On his list were simple requests — warm socks, bed sheets, and a few holiday treats. Janelle happily fulfilled his wishes, never expecting to cross paths with him again.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
Fast forward to this holiday season, and fate had other plans.
“I went to pick out an Angel Tree card, just like I do every year, and I couldn’t believe it,” Janelle said. “It was Frederick’s card again. What are the odds? Out of all the names, I picked him twice!”
Touched by the coincidence, Janelle decided this time she wanted to meet the man behind the card.
Frederick, a 73-year-old who has called the Senior Towers home, was just as surprised. “I didn’t think I’d ever meet the person who helped me,” he said. “When they told me it was the same lady two years in a row, I was speechless.”
The two met for the first time this week, and their meeting was filled with warmth and holiday cheer. Janelle brought gifts, but the real highlight of the day was the connection they formed.
“This doesn’t happen very often” Frederick shared emotionally, holding back tears. “It means so much to me”
For Janelle, the experience was equally meaningful.
“I feel like I actually did get a grandparent with him,” she says. “He changed my life.”
The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program helps connect donors with children and seniors in need, ensuring no one feels forgotten during the holidays. This touching story is a reminder of how small acts of kindness can create life-changing connections.
As for Janelle and Frederick, they’ve decided to keep in touch beyond the holiday season, proving that the best gifts don’t come wrapped — they come in the form of friendship.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: