Couple Gifts Cash to Homeless Man, Discovers It Goes to Scammer

Retirees also struggle with friend's constant negativity

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A couple who regularly gifted a homeless man named Ron with cash and cookies during the holidays discovered that Ron has been sending the money, including his VA checks, to a woman in China in the hopes of getting her to come to America and marry him. The couple is now debating whether to continue giving Ron cash gifts. Meanwhile, a group of retiree friends are struggling with a friend who constantly complains about her problems, despite being financially secure.

Why it matters

This story highlights the challenges of giving to those in need, as well as the difficulties of dealing with a friend's persistent negativity. It raises questions about how to provide meaningful support without enabling harmful behavior, and how to set boundaries with loved ones who may be struggling with mental health issues.

The details

The couple regularly encountered a homeless man named Ron on their morning walks and decided to gift him a box of homemade cookies and $200 in cash during the holiday season. However, they later learned from several reliable sources that Ron has been sending the money, including his VA checks, to a woman in China in the hopes of getting her to come to America and marry him. Despite being told this is an internet scam, Ron refuses to listen. The couple is now debating whether to continue giving Ron cash gifts, with the wife wanting to only give him cookies and a card, and the husband believing it's none of their business how Ron spends the money.

  • During the holiday season, the couple gifted Ron the cookies and cash.
  • Recently, the couple learned from several reliable sources about Ron sending money to a woman in China.

The players

The Couple

A married couple who regularly encountered a homeless man named Ron on their morning walks and decided to gift him a box of homemade cookies and $200 in cash during the holiday season.

Ron

A homeless man who the couple regularly encountered on their morning walks and gifted with cookies and cash during the holiday season. Ron has been sending the money, including his VA checks, to a woman in China in the hopes of getting her to come to America and marry him.

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What they’re saying

“If this gives Ron purpose or pleasure, then who are we to interfere? Our reward should be in the giving and nothing else.”

— The Husband (dailycamera.com)

“I figure it's just $200 less for some heartless con artist to steal.”

— The Wife (dailycamera.com)

The takeaway

This story highlights the complexities of giving to those in need, as well as the challenges of dealing with a friend's persistent negativity. It underscores the importance of setting boundaries, communicating openly, and finding ways to support others without enabling harmful behavior.