In a heartwarming Christmas story, bus driver Wayne Price from Alabama is gaining media attention for an unannounced deed of generosity that perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season.

Ten years ago, Price would never have imagined himself driving a bus. He had left full-time preaching in 2013. He was persuaded to accept the position by a friend who was a previous principal since it fit with his desire to work with youth.

Regarding his experiences driving elementary, middle, and high school children in Montevallo, Price said, “I was just amazed at how quick I fell in love with the kids.” Price understands that despite the short amount of time spent interacting with pupils on the bus, there is still room to influence and lead by example.

On Tuesday morning, after the bad weather caused Shelby County Schools to be declared closed for two hours, Price got a text. Price made a considered choice, knowing that breakfast would not be provided at Montevallo Elementary School during the delay.

Considering the pupils on his bus, he impulsively bought 50 breakfast sandwiches when he stopped for his own meal. In his own words, “I am not wealthy. I work in ministry full-time. Although I am not wealthy, you can sit there and consider that you can spend $50 on dinner for your family, and that’s all it was—just taking them out to eat.”

Elizabeth Lopez, a fifth student at Montevallo Elementary School, showed her thanks and astonishment by saying, “I am really thankful for having him as a bus driver, and he feels like a dad to me.”

In addition to praising Price, principal Dr. Allison Campbell emphasized how eager the community is to lend a hand when necessary. Price was referred to by her as “an example and a testament to this community and the schools in Montevallo.”

Price stressed his belief in love and how it is a manifestation of Christ’s love when talking about his motivation. “The spirit of Christmas is giving. Love is shown around Christmas. Christmas is about appreciating people more than oneself, Price said. Even if his actions seem superficial, they are in line with Christmas’s greater meaning.

Price had one straightforward request for the pupils as they received their sandwiches: that the wrappers not wind up on the bus floor. In a touching turn of events, the children complied with his request and cleaned the bus.

Wayne Price’s unplanned act of compassion resonates with the spirit of giving and love, serving as a reminder of the power of kindness and the genuine meaning of Christmas in a world full with obstacles.