Watch: Heartwarming Video of Good Samaritan Delivering Free Firewood for 85-Year-Old Widow Goes Viral
Brittain also heeded the people's call to start a fundraiser for Abernathy

In a world often dominated by bad news, one man's simple act of kindness has captured hearts across the globe. A video showing Paul Brittain, owner of Brittain's Tree and Crane Services in North Carolina, delivering free firewood to an 85-year-old widow named Nana Abernathy has exploded online.
The clip, filmed on a chilly December day, shows the elderly woman bursting into tears of gratitude as she hugs Brittain tightly on her doorstep. Viewers can't get enough of this feel-good story that's spreading like wildfire just days before Christmas.
@paul_teambts Helping a widow women today! She was so happy to receive this gift! Y’all enjoy #foryou #4u #hope #jesus #fyp
♬ original sound - Paul Brittain
The Emotional Delivery
The footage begins with Brittain arriving at Abernathy's modest home after she called his company begging for firewood to heat her house. She confessed she couldn't afford to pay. Instead of turning her away, Brittain stacked a generous load of wood for free.
As Abernathy realises the gift, her face lights up with joy. 'Oh my goodness, thank you so much,' she exclaims, pulling him into an embrace that lasts several heartfelt seconds.
Brittain later shared the moment on social media, titling it 'Helping a widow woman today! She was so happy to receive this gift.' The raw emotion he captured has left many watchers quite emotional.
Who is the Hero Behind the Act?
Paul Brittain isn't just a business owner; he's a community pillar in North Carolina. Running his tree and crane service for years, he often goes beyond the call of duty. In this case, what started as a firewood request turned into something much bigger.
Brittain revealed in updates that Abernathy, a widow living alone, had been struggling with basic needs amid rising costs. His decision to help stemmed from a deep sense of compassion, inspired by his faith and values.
'This is the America I love,' X user Matt Van Swol wrote on his re-post, echoing the sentiment of thousands.
Going Above and Beyond
But Brittain didn't stop at firewood. After learning more about Abernathy's hardships, he fixed her car's tires, repaired her leaking roof, and sorted out her faulty heating and air conditioning unit, all at no cost.
He even organised a yard cleanup and gutter clearing with donations from supporters. To ensure long-term support, Brittain launched a GoFundMe campaign on 6th December, aiming to raise £16,315 ($22,000) for her Christmas needs and ongoing care. As of 22 December, the fund has collected £14,920 ($20,115) from 471 generous donors, inching close to the goal.
Viral Sensation Sparks Generosity
The video first posted on TikTok and Facebook by Brittain on 5th December has racked up millions of views. On Facebook alone, it boasts 4.9 million views and 379,000 reactions, while Van Swol's re-post on X yesterday amassed over 2.2 million views, 155,000 likes, and thousands of shares.
Comments flood in praising Brittain's charitable act and questioning why more aid isn't directed to struggling Americans instead of abroad. 'This is what real humanity looks like,' one user wrote.
A Reminder of True Spirit
As the holidays approach, this tale serves as a powerful reminder that small acts can ignite big change. Brittain's efforts have not only warmed Abernathy's home but also inspired a community to rally proving that kindness still thrives in America.
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