Cop Helps Homeless Man; Shaq, Dikembe and Hawks Step Up

ATLANTA, GA -- Officer Mason Mercure says he has known Jimmy for 10 years and Jimmy is just a good-natured gentle giant.

"Jimmy is homeless," according to an Atlanta police department Facebook posting. "He works at the Exxon Station near University and Pryor cleaning up the parking lot, doing odd jobs and just being friendly to anyone he encounters.

Mercure wanted to help Jimmy so he went on social media and asked for assistance to get some clothing and shoes. The problem is, you can't just buy regular shoes and clothes for Jimmy. He wears a size 23 shoe, which you can't just find at any old store.

After hearing about Jimmy, Shaquille O'Neal stepped up to the plate and gave Jimmy two pair of sneakers. Dikembe Mutombo also stepped up and gave Jimmy clothes and shoes. The Atlanta Hawks gave Jimmy shorts, t-shirts, hats and other items. Sgt. Kevin Knapp, who works in Zone 5, also gave clothing to Jimmy as well.

Police are also looking for a church that will take Jimmy in and provide him with shelter so he doesn't have to live on the street.

Our community owes a big debt of gratitude to an Atlanta police officer who is going out of his way to help a needy member of our commnunity.

Image: APD Facebook