Moving to a new town with five kids can be a bit scary – everything is new, from places to people and even the way you live.

Sharaine Carabello, 32, her husband Wilson, 42, and their children felt this when they moved from Texas to Pawtucket, Rhode Island. They didn’t know what the future held for them, and they were especially worried about being accepted because they were the only Black family in the neighborhood.

The Caraballo family, worried about being accepted in their new neighborhood, found unexpected support from their 82-year-old neighbor, Paul Callahan. Paul, who had lost his wife recently, reached out to them with kindness. He brought tools and offered to help with fixing up their home, creating a special connection.

Sharaine Carabello shared with USA Today that Paul, a retired Texas Instruments manager, became like family. They not only benefited from his handyman skills but also included him in their family events, offering him comfort during a tough time. The bond grew strong, with Paul becoming an honorary grandpa to the Caraballo kids.

Beyond fixing things around the house, Paul became an important part of the Caraballo family’s daily life. He spends time with them almost every day, making the kids happy, sharing stories, and becoming a beloved figure known as “Grandpa.”

Paul, who likes talking to people and being social, thinks it’s really important to connect with others. He believes you might miss out on making a friend if you don’t take a chance to talk. Paul says being nice doesn’t cost anything, and most of the time, it brings you something good in return.

The Caraballo family’s decision to be open and kind to Paul turned a regular neighbor relationship into a really strong bond. They learned that families aren’t just about blood relatives. Building meaningful connections with others can make you feel like you belong and provide the support you need.

In this unexpected connection, the Caraballos found not only a supportive neighbor but also a cherished family member. Paul, in turn, found a renewed sense of purpose and joy, proving that sometimes, when we least expect it, people enter our lives precisely when we need them the most.