You never know who’s listening or who your actions may affect. The store manager in the story below probably thought he was just doing his job, but he was doing more than that — he was doing the right thing.

“I went to store #829, Columbia, South Carolina, to purchase a Sunday paper from the customer service counter. In front of me stood a man asking for Store Manager Jeffrey Thompson. The store manager came over and asked the man how he could help him. The man began to share his story with Jeff — about how he’d had a rough life, didn’t have much food and that he’s applied everywhere for work, including this store.

“The store manager immediately put out his hand, apologized to the man and told him that he would help him apply again. Then, Jeff walked around the counter, picked up a Publix gift card and paid for it himself. He handed the gift card to the man and told him to go get some groceries and then come back so they could fill out the application together.

“I was so impressed. The fact that he stopped what he was doing to give this man his undivided attention was amazing. This was the most amazing manager I have ever witnessed. Publix is doing an awesome job with hiring the best management. Jeff’s leadership is casting a good shadow on the people in his store. This was the purest form of kindness I have witnessed in a long time.”

Hilda
Columbia, South Carolina

Do you have a heartwarming story to share about a store or an associate? If so, send an email to corporate.communications@publix.com with the details. Read more stories by visiting PASSport > Our Company > Publix Recognition > Associate Applause.