NewsCovering Kentucky

Actions

Making A Difference: This Santa’s ‘Secret’ Is Out

Posted at 8:26 PM, Dec 11, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-11 20:26:47-05

LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — He’s a secret no more.

LEX 18 reported Monday about someone paying for strangers’ merchandise purchases at a Lexington Walmart.

Now, thanks to public input, LEX 18 has tracked the “Secret Santa” down.

Corey Baker had no idea his act of generosity would land him in the spotlight.

“It was just kind of crazy because truthfully we didn’t do this for any kind of fanfare,” Baker said.

When he set out Saturday at the Nicholasville Road Walmart, he was delivering on a promise years in the making.

Four years ago, Baker and his young family were on the receiving end of a mysterious benefactor who paid off their layaway purchases. He said he vowed then to pay it forward when he could.

“I truthfully believe that living generosity out loud inspires other people to be generous,” he said.

So that’s what he did, paying for strangers’ purchases at random. Taking care of five or six people in totaled about $1,200.

“I think most people protested,” he said. “You know, it’s a weird thing that’s not something you normally experience, somebody coming up and wanting to pay for stuff.”

He brought his young daughters along, and they took video of the whole thing. Baker said they’ve watched it over and over.

And while Baker said he wasn’t looking for recognition, he doesn’t mind it.

He said he’s hopeful it will inspire others to give.

“The world would be a better place if we all made it our mission to make someone’s day every day,” he said.