8-Year-Old Raises $70,000 For Favorite Waffle House Waiter

One child saw a friend in need, so he stepped up and came through in a big, big way.

Everyone has their favorite restaurant and a preferred dish at that establishment. For one young man, his restaurant of choice is Waffle House. But in addition to a favorite Waffle House meal, 8-year-old Kayzen Hunter also has a preferred Waffle House employee. 

So, when Kayzen learned that his favorite waiter – Devonte Gardner - was going through some hardships, Kayzen knew he needed to help his friend out. And so, he did, helping to raise more than $70,000 for Devonte. 

Devonte, as the video posted to YouTube mentions, was experiencing car trouble, forcing him to walk or ask for a ride to work. Additionally, due to black mold, Devonte and his two children had to vacate their apartment and live in a motel. 

Kayzen told his mother they needed to start a GoFundMe to help Devonte and his family out during their time of need. At first, the goal was $5,000, but that number was reached quickly. 

Kayzen told Good Morning America (GMA) why he likes Devonte Gardner so much.

“Because he’s really funny. He treats everyone with respect,” Kayzen said. 

Devonte, Kayzen’s favorite waiter at Waffle House, mentioned their friendship was almost immediate. 

“Kayzen’s a great guy,” Devonte said. “Ever since I met him, the first time I met him, when he came to my Waffle House, we connected and bonded from right there.”

When Devonte initially learned about the thousands of dollars raised for him, his mouth fell open and he began crying. 

“There are some good people in this world,” Devonte said.

Devonte told GMA that whenever Kayzen graduates, whether elementary school, middle school, high school or college, he’ll be in attendance to support his friend.

A little bit of love, kindness, and….some delicious food can change someone’s life forever. 

Ephesians 4:32 “And be kind to one another, full of pity, having forgiveness for one another, even as God in Christ had forgiveness for you.”