Latoya Harris, a single mother from Des Moines, has experienced a dramatic shift in fortune after an act of kindness cost her her job at a local diner. Harris, working extra shifts to fund her son Jaden’s basketball aspirations, defied diner policy to serve a late customer last week. Unbeknownst to her, that customer was basketball superstar Caitlyn Clark.
The incident occurred late on a Tuesday evening when Clark, arriving shortly after the kitchen’s designated closing time, was refused service by other employees. Harris, witnessing Clark’s disappointment, made the decision to prepare a meal for the athlete, a move that violated the diner’s strict rules. This act of compassion, however, resulted in her immediate termination.
While initially devastating, Harris’s story quickly resonated with the community and beyond. Clark, moved by Harris’s gesture, publicly acknowledged the incident and praised her kindness. This public endorsement led to a wave of support for Harris, including offers of financial assistance and job opportunities.
“I was just trying to do what I thought was right,” Harris stated. “My grandmother always taught me to treat everyone with kindness, and that’s what I tried to do.”
The outpouring of support has extended beyond individual donations. A local entrepreneur has reportedly approached Harris with a proposal for a potential business partnership, offering her the opportunity to leverage her culinary skills and passion for community to open her own establishment.
Furthermore, the newfound attention has created opportunities to further Jaden’s basketball ambitions. Donations have poured in to cover the costs of his summer basketball camp, bringing him closer to his dream of playing in the NBA.
Harris remains focused on providing for her son and contributing to her community. “I believe in helping others,” she said. “Everyone deserves a good meal and a little bit of kindness.”
This incident serves as a potent reminder that even in the face of adversity, compassion and a willingness to take a risk can lead to unexpected and transformative outcomes. Latoya Harris’s story is a testament to the power of kindness and the enduring importance of community support.
