Support Pouring In For Widower Selling Firewood To Pay Off Dead Wife’s Medical Bills

One man’s roadside firewood stand in Gulfport is getting the attention of thousands of people all across the world. It’s his heartbreaking story that has people jumping at the chance to help. Last year, Kenneth Smith was set up in the same spot selling kindling by the bagful to anyone who would buy it. At his side was his wife of more than thirty years, Helen.

“She was right here with me. Should would sit and wave at all the people that would come by,” said Smith.

She was battling cancer, and Smith was using what he made selling the kindling to help pay medical bills. But, Helen eventually lost the hard-fought battle. Now, Smith is selling kindling again to help with ongoing expenses.

“She’s a proud woman because she’s looking down on me,” said Smith.

The surrounding community noticed his efforts to sell the wood. Jessica Pittman published a post online that explained Smith’s story. It quickly gathered the attention of thousands of people.

“I think it’s wonderful, wonderful thing that so many people are interested in helping someone who has such a big heart,” said Jill Paige after buying several bags of the kindling. Dozens of people visited him in person buying his kindling and some just handed him money as a donation.

Smith’s son created a GoFundMe page raising almost $14,000 in 19 hours.

“It makes me think that we live in a good country and this is part of it,” said Smith. A country that Smith believes will lift people up when the need is there, even if that means buying a little firewood.