'What neighbors do': Sherman Perk coffee owner rallies community to help mother in need

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — One man's simple act of kindness is changing a woman's life and inspiring an entire community to step up.

A Sherman Park neighborhood coffee shop is doing more than serving fun lattes.

Last week a customer came in with a lot on her mind, now, the owner is asking the community to help her out.

"I always like to engage with people whose faces are new and she looked sad. I asked is anything the matter she started to explain her recent circumstances, and it was it was very moving," said Bob Olin, Sherman Perk Coffee Shop owner.

Bob Olin has owned Sherman Perk Coffee Shop for 24 years; he says his work goes beyond the coffee counter.

"That's what neighbors do. She had lost everything, and she said she has three young kids, two with autism, and she now finally has a flat that she's renting," Olin explained.

Olin says that customer is starting to get back on her feet but she doesn't have the means to fill her new home.

"While she was not able to pay her storage fees she lost all of her worldly possessions," said Olin.

So, he turned to the community for help.

"They responded immediately. We had boxes and piles of donated items already," said Olin.

Olin shared pictures of the full boxes of bedding, a microwave and glassware but says the need doesn't stop there.

"Living room furniture, sofa, chairs, coffee table, a tv. A customer is donating a kitchen table which I will pick up and deliver tomorrow," said Olin.

He says it's a reminder to check in on others and show up when it matters most.

"Most of us have been blessed to have much more than we need," said Olin.

If you're looking to clear out items from your home or want to donate, Olin says you can come to the coffee shop to drop it off.