Brighten Your Day

Teen Saves Up Money And Surprises Classmate In Need With New Shoes

May 5, 2018

A high school student in South Carolina saved up her money and surprised a classmate in need with new shoes, clothes and a backpack.

Credit: Sofi Cruz Turner / Facebook

Sofi Cruz Turner, a sophomore at Conway High School in Conway, SC, said she has known Jahiem since third grade.

Sofi wrote on Facebook:

"The past week and a half, I have been planning on doing something special for a good friend of mine. His name is Jahiem. I have known Jahiem since the 3rd grade in Mrs. Dragotta's class. He has always been that one student where he does all of his work when due, never misses school, always helping the teacher out with stuff in class, and always being a happy human being. Last week, he didn't want to sound in need, Jahiem asked 'can someone buy me a pair of shoes? I don't like mine and I wear a 10-11.'

I've always thought about getting him something before but never had the money or the gut to do it. Since I've gotten a job and have been working really hard, I got the money together and bought him a pair of shoes the next day. My Mom and GranDaddy helped out as well. When giving him his stuff and watching him open his bag, all my emotions were coming out. Seeing him crying was very emotional because I could see that he was didn't know what to think. I am so thankful to know that giving Jahiem those shoes made him so happy and allowing me to realize that giving someone something so special can be life changing."

She presented Jahiem with the gifts in class on Wednesday, and the emotional moment was captured on video.