Steve Hartman of CBS News is one of the very best feature reporters ever! Mr. Hartman has such a BIG HEART FOR ALL! Mr. Hartman brings viewers moving stories from the unique people he meets in his weekly award-winning feature segment “On the Road.”
CBS News
Steve Hartman
Avery County, North Carolina — Some people were skeptical, at first, of the stranger who rolled into flood-ravaged Avery County in western North Carolina this week claiming to be some kind of Santa.
Yet, he persisted, approaching people in parking lots, grocery stores, and even motel rooms, where those displaced by Hurricane Helene are still sheltering three months after the devastating storm.
Every year, this anonymous, wealthy businessman travels the country during the holidays giving away about $100,000 in $100 bills.
The money goes to random strangers and people he seeks out, knowing their need. Why did this Secret Santa want to come to North Carolina?
“I think when people go through tragedy, they can lose their house — all their belongings,” he told CBS News. “But what they can’t lose is hope. And maybe we can give a little hope.” On The Road Secret Santa gives out thousands of dollars to North Carolina residents devastated by Hurricane Helene
