Most people are praised for giving back to others. However, this was not the case for McDonald’s employee Heather Levia in Olean, New York. Levia, a 23-year-old single mother was fired for her charitable actions. After working for 8 years at her local McDonald’s, Heather thought she would do something nice. She asked her boss if the fast-food restaurant would pick up the tab for a group of hungry firefighters that just put out a fire. After boss said no, Heather called the corporate office could pick up the bill, and they also refused.
Heather resulted to pay for the hungry firemen’s sandwiches with the help of a few of her other co workers. She put up $83 from her own pocket to pay for the firefighters meal, only to be fired the very next day she came in to work.
The McDonalds states that the reason for her dismissal was for cursing at a superior, however Heather denies this. Heather states that the worst she said was, “freaking ridiculous.” None of her other co workers were fired. Heather is entirely sure that she was fired because of her altruistic actions.
She felt this way, especially after the fire department called the McDonald’s manager saying that they hoped she did not feel obligated to pay for their food. The manager complained that she was causing public relation problems.
After being fired, Heather declared, “It’s just wrong. I wish the communities would change and help each other out. I wish that things didn’t have to be the way they are. And if losing my job is going to speak out to the community, then that’s what it’s going to do.”
Heather appreciates everything that the firemen in her community do, and she continues to take a stand amongst her peers. Luckily, Heather has been offered multiple jobs due to the attention she gained from her story.