PHOENIX (AZFamily) — These days it’s difficult for some people to be able to afford groceries. Even the basics can strain a tight budget. It’s even tougher when you’re shopping for others, raising a family, or even preparing for a new baby.
That’s what Gibby Parra and the Arizona’s Family Surprise Squad discovered when they recently went to the Fry’s Food Store at 7th Avenue and Camelback Road to surprise people by paying for their groceries.
One by one, shoppers were stunned when Gibby stepped in with an unexpected offer: “I would like to pay for your groceries.”
At first, some people hesitated, insisting they could cover the cost themselves. But Gibby reassured them the goal was simply to help.
“I know you can pay for it,” he told one shopper. “But the Valley Toyota dealers and the Arizona Family Surprise Squad just like to help somebody out.”
Gibby Parra and the Arizona’s Family Surprise Squad paid a visit to a central Phoenix grocery store to help shoppers cover the cost of their groceries.(Arizona’s Family)
He got different reactions from different shoppers. Some were visibly grateful. Others couldn’t believe the offer was real.
For one woman, the timing couldn’t have been better. She was a week away from delivering a baby and said she was on a budget, doing everything she could to get ready ahead of time.
“I’m just preparing, trying to get everything for the baby and me,” the expectant mother told Gibby. “I’m a single mom in the program right now, so I’m very appreciative.”
She added that the surprise would help her stay on track while she managed a limited budget.
Another shopper told Gibby the surprise brought her true relief during a time when paying for the basics can make a person feel overwhelmed.
“It’s a relief. You know, it’s expensive. Even just everything here in the grocery store, cost of living, everything. So it’s a blessing,” she explained.
Throughout it all, Gibby’s message remained the same: Even a small surprise can go a long way.
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