Atlanta, America, 14 December 2011

Gujarati NRI Smitha Patel watched a good samaritan story on 11Alive News TV channel, and imidiately decided to give job to him. A good samaritan Rod Garrett is now working at Patel couple’s store Buckhead Shell.

Smitha Patel, a viewer of 11Alive rewarded Garrett for his honesty by giving him job in her store.

“His honesty really really touched us,” said Smitah Patel, who owns Buckhead Shell along with her husband. “We thought, we’ve got to help this guy out.”

11Alive News first aired the story of Rod Garrett last Friday. The unemployed courier was at the Lenox MARTA station when he found a lady’s purse on a bench. He immediately began efforts to find the owner.

“Every time I’ve needed something to get over a hump, there was help,” said Garrett. “If I’m blessed like that, why not return the gift?”

Inside the purse were credit cards, blank checks, and more than $500 in cash. It all belonged to Cyana Gailor, who left the purse in a rush to make her train.

“I know this is the beginning of Rod’s blessings,” said Gailor after the return of her purse. “I’m sure God will bless him for doing this.”

Although he didn’t ask for it, Gailor rewarded Garrett with a gift and an offer to help him find work.

Employment was about to find Garrett. Almost immediately after his story aired, the owners of Buckhead Shell called 11Alive hoping to meet the Good Samaritan. Using MARTA and his bicycle, Garrett visited the business Monday morning.

It’s been 30 years since Garrett worked in a convenience store. Despite the lack of experience, Smitah Patel noted the honesty that was at the top of Garrett’s resume. After speaking for a short time, she offered Garrett a job.

“We’re always looking for honest employees,” said Patel.

“It’s a blessing,” said Garrett. “You keep the faith, believe in yourself, and things will get better.”

After three years without a paycheck, Garrett will begin work at 8 a.m., Tuesday.

“Part of my struggles may be over,” said Garrett. “It’s a big relief.”

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