On Feb. 28, 2025, Sam Restifo of Saginaw, Michigan, opened his front door to two boys, 14 and 12, who were dropped by a woman he barely knew. The boys had no family support and feared separation if placed in foster care. Restifo chose to keep them together and provide a home.
The new household struggled immediately. There was no running water, and a power outage forced Restifo to rely on a backup generator. Without legal guardianship, enrolling the boys in the new school year proved difficult, and basic services were delayed.
ABC12’s coverage of the case sparked a GoFundMe that has raised $18,506. The community has stepped in, with strangers offering financial help to cover day‑to‑day expenses and potential legal fees.
The influx of funds is already easing the boys’ living conditions. Restifo expects to restore running water, bring electricity back, and enroll the children in school. He also plans to use part of the money to buy new clothes and shoes for the kids.
In addition to the immediate relief, Restifo’s gutter‑repair business has seen renewed interest, potentially adding a long‑term income stream for the household. The deeper bond between Restifo and the boys is a testament to the impact of community support.
Restifo has filed a petition with the Saginaw County Circuit Court to secure legal guardianship, with a hearing scheduled for early September. The outcome will determine whether the boys can remain in his care permanently.