Canadian Woman Chats With Homeless Man, Offers Him A Job On Her Farm

March 2, 2023

A Canadian woman is helping change a homeless man's life.

About three weeks ago, Danielle MacDuff of Newcastle, Ontario said she saw Brian Bannister collecting change on the street corner and decided to strike up a conversation.

They chatted for 20 minutes before she invited Bannister to work on her farm the next day.

Danille and Brian / via GoFundMe

Bannister was living in a shed. The 60-year-old said he has overcome addiction, survived abuse and lost two wives. Two years ago, he had thrown in the towel and "given up".

Then came MacDuff out of nowhere.

"It floored me. It just came from the heart with her and I get to thank her every day," Bannister told CTV News Toronto.

Every day, MacDuff, Bannister, and the other staff clean stalls, haul hay and care for 200 animals including goats, cows, horses and dogs.

Danille and Brian / Credit: CTV News

MacDuff got him his first haircut in two years, a phone, and launched a GoFundMe page to help him get a warm place to stay.

She wrote on GoFundMe:

"This man's name is Brian and he is 60 years old, he loves when people take the time to stop and chat with him and ask about his day. I took the time one day and I knew from that very moment, I needed to help him get back on his feet. I offered him a job on my farm and he started the next day. He has come everyday and is always ready to be picked up, he gives 100% all day with no complaints. I can't afford to pay much so I reached out to our community. What a response of encouragement and support we have received, it fills my heart. I really want to raise enough money to get Brian in a nice warm place he can call his own and re-build his life. It is so cold out there and he lives in a small shed with no insulation."

As of Thursday morning, more than $5,000 has been raised for Brian.

"I have no words for the support and love I feel from all who have donated and shared. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, I am blown away," MacDuff said.

Aside from the work, the pair is enjoying their new friendship.

"He has no idea what this has done for me," MacDuff said.

"He's so kind, compassionate, he's amazing with my children, my animals."

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