Generous Gesture in Memphis: Therapist Aids Family Stranded in Winter Storm
February 5, 2026
A heartwarming act unfolded in Memphis when a local therapist stepped forward to assist a family caught in the grips of a severe winter storm.
Gerald and the woman who helped his family / ABC 24 Memphis
Gerald Driver, his spouse, and their three young ones found themselves taking refuge at the Ed Rice Community Center when frigid weather and slick roads disrupted Memphis. Over several nights, the family made do with sleeping on the community center’s floor while volunteers strived to meet basic needs.
“We slept on the floor from Friday till today,” Driver recounted. “Me and my wife, a 12-year-old, a 9-year-old, and a 1-year-old. The people here, the staff, they rallied with other people from other centers to bring us hot meals when they could and provide blankets.”
The turning point came when the family’s plight was broadcast on a local news channel, capturing the attention of a compassionate viewer.
This viewer, opting to remain anonymous due to her profession as a therapist, was deeply moved by the segment and felt an urgent need to assist.
“They hadn’t had anything hot for several days,” she expressed. “Beef jerky and fruit cups were all they’d had to eat. Three children and an older woman, and they’re all sleeping on the floor.”
Determined to make a difference, she took action by coordinating food deliveries to ensure the family received warm meals.
“They were hungry, and I thought, I can’t tolerate that,” she remarked. “So I went on DoorDash and looked around for places that were still delivering. I found a station that was still open. They made things like pizza and fried chicken.”
Her efforts extended beyond food as she provided air mattresses to improve their sleeping conditions, along with essential supplies like wipes. Throughout the weekend, she maintained contact with the family, offering reassurance and solidarity.
Watch the video below:
