Brotherly Love: Market Owner Surprises Family With Food For A Year
By Ukee Washington
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A local grocery store owner wanted to help families in need, and he wanted it to be personal. Eyewitness News anchor Ukee Washington was there as the man surprised a family with a generous gift.
Constance Roberson of Northeast Philadelphia is raising three teenage grandchildren, including Christian, who has a serious kidney condition requiring frequent hospitalizations.
"For my grandkids, they know I'll make the sacrifice. You first, because you're the future," Constance said.
A non-profit, Casey Cares, provides fun getaways for the grandchildren and other kids. Little did Constance know more help was about to arrive.
Andre Malkin immigrated to Philadelphia from Uzbekistan more than 20 years ago. Now he co-owns the NetCost Market chain of nine stores, two in Philly, specializing in both American and imported food.
"I understand how difficult sometimes it could be, from my personal experience," Andre said.
Andre hooked up with Casey Cares to give a family in the neighborhood a year's worth of groceries free.
"I would rather pick the family and help the family, and see how it is making the difference," Andre said.
Constance thought I was there to interview her about Casey Cares. Then Andre walked in.
"We select your family to be a recipient of a year of groceries for free," Andre said.
Constance was overwhelmed.
"Oh, bless you! Oh my God! Thank you so much!" she said as she hugged Andre.
"It just means such a great difference to my family," she said as tears welled up in her eyes.
Andre has also given grocery gift cards to several families.
For more on Casey Cares, go to www.caseycares.org
