“Sometimes we all just need a little help,” the post said. “You never know what someone may be going through.”

Middletown Police Chief Rodney Muterspaw was not surprised by Deaton's actions, but he was proud. He said officers have purchased Christmas gifts for families, delivered food during the holidays and given rides to the homeless.

In the Facebook post, the police department encouraged others to "pay it forward."

The post quickly went viral, with over 3,000 likes and 1,200 shares in less than a day.

The Journal-News contributed to this report.

About the Author

Featured

A rendering of the columbarium memorial that is estimated to be completed by next summer or fall in the southeast part of Oakland Cemetery, officials said. (Courtesy of Historic Oakland Foundation)

Credit: Historic Oakland Foundation