Glen James, a homeless man in Boston who called police after discovering a backpack full of cash and checks, has been rewarded for his good deed by a complete stranger, according to KRIS TV.
James found the bag, also filled with important personal documents, outside of a TJ Maxx store in Dorchester, Mass. on Saturday. After notifying the police, the rightful owner -- a student from China -- retrieved his bag.
After news of the incident was announced on Monday, local police officers and friends acknowledged James for his action and inspired complete strangers to commend him as well.
One of the strangers, Ethan Wittington, created a donations page to raise money for a reward. So far, the page has brought in $50,000 -- more money than what the backpack could have provided him with.
"I just want to thank you so much for being so kind," James said to Wittington online.
"You don't need to tell me you're the one that deserves all the credit right here you're the one that's done everything. You've revived my faith in humanity and in the United States man," Wittington responded.
James expressed his appreciation for the reward, which he said will help him start a new life.
"I am so glad that a total stranger can be so kind," James said.
According to Boston news station WHDH, James and Wittington plan to meet in person next week.
"People will probably tell him he's nuts, but homeless people are the first to help you out," said Bob Boisselle, who stays at the same shelter as the James, to The Boston Herald. "They don't have anything, but they'll give you what they do have."
"Homeless people know what it's like to be down and out," added Boisselle, who has been homeless since 2005.
