Secret Santas hand out C-notes all over Charlotte

The Story

In what’s become a Queen City tradition, a group of “elves” and “Santa’s helpers” on Thursday passed out $100 to strangers.

The Facts

– Seven anonymous benefactors wearing red berets drove around Charlotte finding strangers in need.

– One recipient was a man changing a flat along West Boulevard.

– At least a dozen women at a domestic violence shelter each got a Benjamin. Their kids received coloring books.

– Teachers at Merry Oaks International Academy got gifted.

– The elves estimate they’ve given away tens of thousands this holiday season. In return, they ask recipients to do something kind for somebody else.

The Quotes

– “You scared the Santa Claus out of me.” – Terry Butler, the recipient with the flat tire.

– “It’s one of those things that stays in your head all year. To hear people’s stories about how they got where they are … (and) to see that joy through those random acts of kindness.” – Anonymous Elf 1

C5’s Take

What’s not to love in this story? Generosity, humility, holiday joy. Yes, those are tears in our eyes.

Photo: Jeff D. Simmons / Charlotte Observer

This story was originally published December 5, 2014 at 6:18 AM with the headline "Secret Santas hand out C-notes all over Charlotte."