The Ellen DeGeneres Show never fails to create heartwarming moments, and this recent episode was no exception. In a surprise segment, Ellen welcomed Charmony Baiton, a truly inspiring woman who has been called the Mother Teresa of South Central Los Angeles.
Charmony, who lives in a one-bedroom apartment, has dedicated her life to helping at-risk children in her community. Over the years, she has provided guidance, hope, and a safe haven for more than 70 children, helping them stay clear of gangs, drugs, and crime.
During the interview, Ellen expressed her admiration for Charmony’s incredible selflessness and asked her why she chose to open her home and help these children. Charmony explained that she was inspired by her own mother, who would bring in every stray cat she saw when Charmony was growing up. She believed that helping others was her destiny and what God had called her to do.
Ellen emphasized the difficult circumstances in which Charmony and the children she helps live. The neighborhood is plagued with drive-by shootings, making even the simple act of walking to school a dangerous ordeal. Gangs often coerce children out of school, leaving them feeling hopeless and without a future.
Despite these challenges, Charmony has set clear rules for the children she takes in. No drugs, no gangs, regular church attendance, and a focus on education are non-negotiable. She aims to instill hope, discipline, and a sense of purpose in each child’s life.
Moved by Charmony’s unwavering dedication, the Los Angeles County Sheriff, Lee Baca, donated a building to Charmony to start a Sheriff Leadership Academy. This academy will pick up the children from their homes, provide them with uniforms, a home-cooked breakfast, and, most importantly, hope for a brighter future.
To express their appreciation for Charmony’s extraordinary work, Ellen surprised her with several gifts. Kmart presented her with a $5,000 gift card that she can use to buy uniforms for the children. Albertsons also contributed a $5,000 gift card, which will surely help with the expense of feeding the large number of children in Charmony’s care.
But the support didn’t stop there. Sentinella Freeman Health System donated over $3,000 for student uniforms, and SBC Bank pledged $5,000 towards purchasing a van for transporting the children.
Charmony, overcome with joy and gratitude, couldn’t contain her emotions as Ellen revealed the gifts. The generosity of these organizations will significantly assist Charmony in her mission to provide a safe, nurturing environment for the children she takes in.
This heartwarming segment on The Ellen DeGeneres Show serves as a reminder of the power of kindness and compassion. Charmony’s selfless devotion to helping these at-risk children is truly inspiring, and her story has the potential to inspire others to make a difference in their own communities.
If you would like to support Charmony and the amazing work she does, you can make a donation on The Ellen DeGeneres Show’s website. Let’s join together in uplifting Charmony and all those who dedicate their lives to bringing hope and love to those who need it most.
Originally aired on May 24, 2005
