32yo single Michigan mother, living in shelters, commits one act of selflessness and now she has to never worry about money again

A viral video showing a homeless mother’s act of kindness has led to a life-changing outcome. Brienna, a 32-year-old single mother from Detroit, Michigan, offered a blanket to a stranger despite being homeless herself with her two children, ages 5 and 7. That simple gesture would transform her family’s future forever.

Brienna had been homeless for two years after escaping an abusive relationship. With both parents deceased and no support system, she and her children moved between shelters while she tried to raise money for hotel rooms that cost $75 per night. When approached by what appeared to be another homeless person, she had only $8 in a 7-Eleven cup but still showed remarkable generosity.

The stranger turned out to be Zachery Dereniowski, known as MDMotivator, a social media influencer with nearly 7 million YouTube subscribers and 23 million TikTok followers. After witnessing Brienna’s kindness, the response from viewers was overwhelming. As one TikTok user commented, “A house, $500,000, a job, and free daycare? YOU JUST CHANGED THEIR ENTIRE LIVES!” The video showing Brienna’s initial encounter gained over 5 million likes and sparked a massive fundraising effort.

How the internet responded to Brienna’s story

Dereniowski first featured Brienna in a September 14 video that served as a call to action for donations. Despite her dire circumstances, Brienna shared food with Dereniowski and offered him a blanket, telling him he didn’t need to return it. Her generosity, despite having so little, moved millions of viewers to contribute to a crowdfunding campaign. The story reflects how viral TikTok videos can capture the attention of millions and create positive change in people’s lives.

The fundraising effort exceeded all expectations, raising over $750,000 for Brienna and her children. On September 17, Dereniowski returned with extraordinary news. He presented Brienna with an envelope containing 10 full-time job offers and arranged for free daycare services for her children.

The gifts didn’t stop there. Brienna received a new white four-door sedan, a mortgage-free home in a safer neighborhood, and $500,000 in cash for long-term financial security. Dereniowski also connected her with a financial advisor to help manage her newfound wealth and set up college funds for her children.