Many of you from the New Bedford, Massachusetts area are familiar or know a friendly big guy who goes by Big Al. He loves wrestling, riding motorcycles, giving giant hugs, and eating tasty cheeseburgers. Sadly, Big Al is in a huge jam and needs your community support to fight homelessness.
What happen to Big Al?
Al "Big Al" Vieira has been homeless since the beginning of February 2023 after his rental home of over two decades had thieves steal copper piping to sell on the illegal market. At 67 years old, Big Al needs a new place to call home. As many folks know, rentals in the New Bedford area are hard to come by when you make less than $1,000 per month to live, and it can be challenging to find assisted living facilities or wait on long lists that support subsidized housing. So, friends and New Bedford community members have started a fundraiser to help one of New Bedford's most beloved, friendly icons with his expenses as he combats homelessness and finds long-term help.
Read more about Al's situation:
Who is coordinating donations?
Through one of Big Al's longest and most trusted friends, Robert (Bob or Bobby to many) Thornhill, a retired marine, and his niece Kate Thornhill are accepting donations on behalf of Big Al.
All donations will be directly shared with Big Al and used to support him in the following ways:
- Purchase medications and vitamins, like his daily iron pills
- Ensure that Big Al has money for food - He loves Mcdonald's breakfast sandwiches and cheeseburgers
- Phone bill, he has one that's $80 per month
- Medical needs
- Housing Rent
- Temporary hotel stays while looking for a home
- Self-care and hygiene supplies
- Moving expenses
- Bus passes and transportation
- New Clothes
Thank you and stay tuned for updates
Thank you to everyone who is able to contribute something to help Big Al stay safe, fed, and secure. We will be posting regular updates to keep you all in the know as his living situation changes.