One Texas high school’s students have stepped up to ensure that their school’s janitor receives the retirement he deserves.
According to KXII-TV, some students at Callisburg High School in northern Texas were saddened to learn that an elderly man had come out of retirement to serve as the school’s janitor in January.
Many students recognized that an 80-year-old man should not have to perform arduous labor because he could no longer afford to retire.
According to KXII, one TikTok video was ultimately critical in making Mr. James’ retirement a reality.
Mr. James dutifully cleaned the school hallways in the video, with the uploader explaining that the senior’s rent had been raised by a landlord, forcing him out of retirement.
This is amazing! Since these 3 North Texas students posted this TikTok and started a GoFundMe for “Mr. James” — an 80-yr-old man who unretired to afford his rent — and have raised more than $215K in just over a week! Their original goal was $10K. ❤️🙏🏼👏🏼 pic.twitter.com/5RVA3w71L9
— Paul B. Livengood II (@IamLivengood) February 23, 2023
Callisburg senior Greyson Thurman created a GoFundMe fundraiser to provide Mr. James with the financial stability he needs for a real retirement.
“I have 2,000 followers and that was enough to get the word out,” Thurman told KXII.
The students had set a $10,000 goal for the fundraiser, but it was far exceeded by generous donors who were saddened that an elderly man had to work at such an advanced age.
Donors from the student community and beyond chipped in to ensure the senior citizen was cared for.
The fundraisers shut down the GoFundMe after raising a whopping $270,905 — enough to ensure their new friend’s retirement without having to work.
“It’s crazy to see. We knew people would want to help but we didn’t know it would blow up,” Callisburg student Matt Yousko said of the fundraiser, according to WKYT-TV.
Thurman thanked the donors for making a difference in the life of an elderly American.
“Thank you everyone who donated and helped Mr. James enjoy his retirement, he asked for us to take down the GoFundMe today, He is VERY appreciative of everyone willing to give up their time to help him out and change his life.”
