SOMERSET - A waitress at a local Pizza Hut received a big tip from a customer at the beginning of the month, enough to put her back on her feet again.
Krystal Kramer works at the Pizza Hut in Somerset County. She started in August, along with working at Area Aging Services.
In December, Kramer said her apartment flooded, leaving her and her roommate the only choice of living in a hotel.
“The Red Cross came and said it was unlivable. No heat, no water. They turned everything off,” said Kramer.
Kramer said they did receive a donation from the Red Cross, but eventually they ran out of money.
“We didn’t realize things were as bad as they were. She was living day to day,” said Erik Bittner, owner of Pizza Hut.
It was Jan. 4, when a customer came into the restaurant one night for dinner.
“Another waitress had this wonderful table. She was talking and joking with them. I even went over and made some jokes too,” said Kramer.
That’s when Kramer said the customer asked his waitress if she wanted the rest of their pizza.
“She said no and then looked at me. I was like yeah, I’m homeless. I don’t know where I’ll eat tonight. I’ll say yes,” said Kramer.
But, the customer wasn’t done yet.
“I’m over in my area cleaning. The waitress calls me over. She has her own tip and then she says, ‘This is for me and this is for you’. It was a tip for $558.33 on a credit card. I couldn’t believe it,” said Kramer.
The customer left before Kramer had the chance to thank them.
“I ran out. I was blowing kisses and putting my hand over my heart,” said Kramer.
“It was a shock for us. I’ve been in business in for 20 years. This is first time I’ve seen a $41 check with a $560 tip,” said Bittner.
Since Krystal was given the tip, she has been able to move into a new apartment and get back on her feet again.
Pizza Hut has also given money to help pay for Kramer’s first month’s rent.
“It’s part of a benevolent fund. It’s funded by all employees here at Pizza Hut,” said Bittner.
“Being able to stand on my two feet by myself is an amazing feeling,” said Kramer.
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