Turning 13 is a “big one,” so naturally, this mom expected her son to request presents and a party. However, Jayden had other plans that have left the internet in tears.
Instead of requesting gifts, Jayden wanted to give back by feeding homeless people for his birthday on March 20.
Newsweek spoke to his proud mom Christina, 36, who was taken aback when he not only proposed the idea in December but also followed through with it. His birthday celebration has since gone viral on TikTok, gathering over 450,000 views (@crose_27).
The healthcare assistant, based in London, told Newsweek: “He has always been a kindhearted person, but I couldn’t believe it when he said, ‘I don’t want anything for my birthday, I want to feed homeless people.'”
According to 2024 research from UK-based charity Shelter, at least 354,000 people in England are homeless. Christina explained that they often see people living on the streets when they are waiting for public transport.
In comparison, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported that 771,480 people experienced homelessness in the US in 2024.
In February, Jayden told his mom that he’d been saving his pocket money to cover the costs of food. In March, he had $78 (£60) saved, which the parents put in his savings and used their own money to buy the spaghetti Bolognese ingredients, birthday cake, and doughnuts.
“He ran home on his birthday because he was so excited to cook and dish out the meals,” she told Newsweek. “He was so determined to help 50 to 60 people, and that is exactly what we did.”
They returned home at around midnight after visiting three areas, where Jayden fed and conversed with many people.
“The experience was eye-opening,” Christina said. “I’ve always taught him to never look down on people in a less fortunate position. He is aware that the people on the streets probably had a good home and family, but their life has turned upside down.
“He is compassionate and has never judged them.”
Jayden was met with praise on his birthday, with many homeless people in shock by his kind gesture.
“At first, he was scared to speak to them, but after meeting about two people, he got into the swing of it and loved every second,” said Christina.
“I am so proud of him, and he already can’t wait to do it again. But this time, he wants to help more people.
“I will help him fulfill his goal.”
So far, the video posted on March 22 has over 85,000 likes and many comments.
“What a beautiful boy you’re raising!” praised one user, and another agreed: “You raised him right.”
“His cup will continuously overflow,” said a third commenter, and a fourth said: “That’s a genius idea.”
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