DETROIT – Six single mothers received an unexpected blessing this holiday season when Detroit business owner Romelo Benji sponsored a Thanksgiving shopping spree at Detroit People’s Food Co-op.
Each mother received a $250 gift card to purchase ingredients for their Thanksgiving meals after winning a live drawing on social media. The giveaway was sponsored by Benji’s company, Easyway Tax Service.
“The only way you can get the prize is be on the live and claim the prize,” explained Benji, who understands firsthand the challenges these mothers face.
He shared his own story of perseverance: “I had no heat in my house. I used to wash up at LA Fitness. I was grinding. My parents died when I was young.”
For winners like Roylonda Adley, who drove from Lansing to participate, the timing couldn’t have been better.
“I am really kind of struggling a little bit. So this was right on time, it was God’s calling,” she said. “It means a lot, there’s still good guys out here that helps single mom of two.”
Fellow winner Sanyel Barnes echoed these sentiments, highlighting the current economic challenges.
“It’s hard out here in the world now. And you have single parents who out here working, still surviving, trying to support their family. And it was a blessing,” Barnes said.
She plans to prepare an extensive Thanksgiving feast, including rabbit, chitlins, ham, turkey, ribs, macaroni and cheese, and potato salad.
For Benji, the shopping spree reflects his personal philosophy.
“The best thing I want people to learn from me is be yourself and be the best version of yourself. My whole message in life is to outdo myself every day.”
Looking ahead, Benji is already planning his next charitable initiative -- a Christmas toy giveaway, with details forthcoming.