Chef was homeless for two years—a Chinese food offer from a stranger changed his life
Just one moment can completely change a person's life for the better. A chef who had been out of a job and homeless for two years hadn't expected his life to turn around just a few days before his 67th birthday. A man, John Ferber, had noticed the former chef, Peter, in the same spot on the street multiple times. One day, he bought Chinese food and decided to share it with Peter as well. The former chef's life story pushed Ferber to help him and change his life in the process, per WPTV.
"I just had some free time and I decided to grab some Chinese food. I drove up to Peter and sure enough, he was on the bench where I thought he would be and we had a great conversation," Ferber recounted. The man also shared a video of Peter on YouTube where he shared his story. "I lost my job a couple of years ago. Lost my house. I used to live up here in Boca Bayou." Peter had been trying to get another job for a year and a half and had also suffered from two heart attacks during that time. The man had put together money from his social security and was hoping to get a studio apartment for himself soon.
He had hoped to get back to work after that and "everything would be good again." Peter added, "I've paid my penance to God. He gave me the strength to sit here and endure and do some introspection and realize where I could have done better in my life." He told WPTV, "I've gone through a lot, days and days, 5,6,7, days without eating at times. I look forward to it. It's a new chapter. Fresh new start." Ferber hoped to help Peter get into a studio apartment before his birthday, so he decided to start a GoFundMe for the man. The fundraiser managed to raise $7,062 out of its $10,000 goal. "For the past 18 months or so, almost every day, I have passed by Peter and finally decided to stop and check in on him yesterday," Ferber explained.
"He's close to getting off the streets and tomorrow, October 13th, is his 67th birthday. I plan to surprise him on his birthday and help get him into the studio apartment he mentions. I sincerely appreciate any consideration you provide for him. Even after his birthday, I will ensure he receives it!" Ferber continued. On October 17th, he shared that he was able to get Peter off the bench and into his new studio apartment because of the generosity he had received. Peter hoped to get back to work as a chef, per the outlet. "I hope to get the job and use what I've been using for 45-50 years, as far as skill and knowledge and bring some value to a business."
The moment Ferber shared the news with Peter, it was really big for the chef. "It was my birthday and John pulled up. He hit me with that big gift and never in my life has anybody been that forthcoming and gracious and hospitable, giving generously." Ferber hoped to continue supporting Peter. "Peter, I love you. I want the best for you. I believe in you. I know that this is the first step to the best next year and the rest of your life. I'm glad you're not on that bench anymore and I'm here with you." Ferber was able to help Peter get a job as a full-time sous chef at a catering company, per PEOPLE.