An anonymous donor paid off the layaways for more than 100 customers at the Walmart at 81st and Lewis, saving many Christmas gifts that were on their way to going back on store shelves.
The deadline to pay off each of the layaway accounts was midnight Thursday. That's where this "secret Santa" came through paying off nearly $32,000 worth of merchandise. Tonya Ramsey is one of the recipients who said she's overwhelmed by the kindness.
"My kids and my grandkids are going to have an awesome Christmas now because of this secret Santa," Ramsey said.
Jim Taylor, Tulsa area commander with the Salvation Army, said the anonymous donor is hoping to inspire others to give.
"Maybe they can't go and pay off someone's layaway, but they can go put money in the kettle. They can buy Angel Tree gifts and help other people," he said.
"I was wondering why Walmart would be calling me and then I got this and I broke down and started crying," Ramsey said. "I always hear it happening to other people but never thought it would be me."
The donor also gave $5,000 to help pay off the remaining Angel Tree gifts. Taylor said their chapter saw an increase in children seeking Angel Tree gifts this year and it took a last minute push by donors and businesses to fulfill each wish.
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