Over $200K Raised For 90-Year-Old Air Force Veteran Working As A Cart Pusher

Karen Ronquillo / YouTube

A heartwarming fundraising campaign was initiated for a 90-year-old U.S. Air Force Veteran who, despite his age, has been tirelessly working as a cart pusher simply to make ends meet.

The initiative took flight after former WWL Louisiana anchor, Karen Swensen, chanced upon Dillon McCormick pushing carts at a Metairie, Louisiana grocery store on Memorial Day. Touched by his story, she decided to take action and share his situation with the world.

McCormick, in a candid conversation with Swensen, revealed that his hard work is solely driven by the need to put food on the table. He disclosed that he requires $2,500 per month to sustain himself, a stark contrast to the $1,100 he receives from Social Security, forcing him to continue working.

Responding to McCormick’s predicament, Swensen wasted no time in setting up a GoFundMe page to support the military veteran.

Within a remarkably short span, the campaign garnered an overwhelming response, with donations exceeding $220,000 within a day of its launch, far surpassing the initial target of $35,000.

In a touching display of solidarity, Swensen decided to elevate the fundraising goal to $200,000, with the intent to provide McCormick with the opportunity to retire comfortably, given his admirable dedication and the longevity of his family members.

“Thank you!!! We surpassed the initial goal of $35,000, which would cover Mr. McCormick’s needs for a little over a year. Increased the goal to $200k – let’s help him retire. His mother lived to be 104 years old, so he’ll need some padding!”

The $200,000 threshold was achieved on Tuesday evening, gifting McCormick the choice to retire at his choice.

With new donations disabled, Swensen extended her heartfelt gratitude to all contributors, emphasizing that the veteran will no longer endure the toil of pushing carts in extreme weather. Instead, he can now relish the comfort and security he so rightfully deserves.

In a final note on the GoFundMe page, Swensen expressed her gratitude once more, underlining the profound impact of the collective effort and extending blessings to all who rallied behind this noble cause.

“Thank you to all who donated to Mr. McCormick’s fund. Together, we raised more than $220,000 in 24 hours, enough for him to retire!! Should he choose to remain working, it will be just that – his choice. No longer will the 90-year-old veteran have to push shopping carts in triple digit heat to put food on his table. He won’t have to walk to work (should he choose to remain); he can Uber instead, or buy a car. He will live out his days in comfort and security. Tomorrow we will begin the process of transferring the funds. What a delightful day awaits for him! God bless all of you and God bless our veterans.”

We are thrilled for Dillon McCormick and touched to witness such an inspiring story of compassion and determination being shared.

Listen to McCormick talk more about his story in the video below.