Given the state of the world today, it should come as no surprise that many individuals must work nonstop in order to survive.

You’ve probably heard a lot about people who try to game the system; about the select few who appear to float by without working, managing to keep afloat without working, and profiting on other people’s generosity.

But for every “freeloader,” there are hundreds of upright, decent people who work hard to make ends meet. Some of these folks may have financial difficulties, but they continue to work as many hours as they can every day in an effort to make ends meet.

According to sources, Bethany Provencher is one of these people. She moved to St. Charles, Illinois a few years ago seeking a fresh start after 18 years in Miami as a dedicated single mother with an 11-year-old son.

Thanks to her 25 years of experience in the customer service sector, Bethany was able to land a position at a nearby IHOP and signed a lease for a new apartment in The Magic City.

Even yet, she was aware that things would be difficult for a while because, according to all reports, she had not been able to adequately decorate her new flat due to a lack of cash.

Then, on a day just before the new year, a famous couple entered the IHOP Bethany was working at and sat down in her section of the eatery.

Donnie Wahlberg, who was with his wife Jenny McCarthy, was immediately recognized by Bethany as the man.

Bethany reportedly found it difficult to control her excitement. The waitress loved the band Donnie was in, New Kids on the Block, and she had always had a soft spot for Donnie in particular.

Bethany was therefore thrilled to be working with him. She was unaware of how profound an influence that day would have on her life.

After Donnie and his family finished their meal, the singer paid their $35.27 bill and wrote a note on the receipt for Bethany to read. It said, “Thanks, Bethany, Happy New Year,” next to a hand-drawn smiley face.

Apparently, Donnie begged Bethany to hold off on looking at the receipt until after he and his wife had left the IHOP. Bethany followed instructions but was shocked to see that Donnie had left her and her coworkers a $2,020 tip when she finally opened the receipt.

See more about Donnie’s generosity in the video below: