Homeless Man Who Tries To Return $10,000 Check Isn't Ready For The Response

Most of the stuff we find on the sidewalk amounts to nothing. But in the back of our minds, we’re always hoping for that golden ticket twist of fate that will change life as we know it. That happened to a homeless man living on the streets of New Haven when he found thousands of dollars right before him. He was forced to choose between doing the right thing and snatching his own proverbial golden ticket. And his decision started a chain reaction he never saw coming.

The bitter reality

Winters are hard for most people, but for homeless folks, it’s a matter of life and death. After years on the streets, Elmer Alvarez knew this. And when he came across a fateful piece of paper, he knew he had the ability to change everything. Was it the right thing to do, though?

Life on the edge

Winter was approaching, after all, and the freezing winds and the snow piles that accumulate faster than plows can sweep 'em away were constant threats to Elmer's safety. He was getting older, and he didn't know how much more his body could take.

Worse times

Still, Elmer already had several winters in New Haven, Connecticut under his belt, so he understood the difficulties of the months ahead. He thought he'd also find some sort of work to keep him afloat. In fact, despite his current situation, times had been worse for Elmer.

Trouble with addiction

A history of addiction had led Elmer down a difficult path. And even though he didn't have a stable place to rest his head each night, he managed to kick his addictions by attending Narcotics Anonymous meetings. Talk about beating the odds!