Burger King Employee of 27 Years Receives Over $328,000 Worth of Donations After a Video of Him Receiving Cheap Gifts from the Company Went Viral

Kevin Ford spent 27 years working at Burger King, and the gift he received for that milestone was so modest that it set off a wave of backlash online. What should have been a simple work anniversary turned into a viral story about loyalty, recognition, and how little some employees feel they get in return. When a video showed him receiving a small goodie bag instead of a meaningful reward, viewers were quick to react, and his daughter later launched a fundraiser that changed everything.

Now the donations have soared far beyond the original goal, and Kevin’s story has become much bigger than one disappointing gift. Read on.

The GoFundMe initially had a goal of $200, but as Kevin's story went viral, the donations reached over $328,000.

JJBers (not the actual photo)

Kevin has dedicated almost three decades of his life to working for Burger King and has never missed a day's work at its branch in Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport.

“I’m happy about anything; I’m thankful for anything I get. I’m not that type of person, believe me. I’ve been through a lot,” Kevin told TMZ, adding: “It’s a great company, you know, I’ve been there 27 years. But, like most big corporations, they’ve kind of lost touch with their workers, and through COVID and whatever, they started cutting out programs.”thekeep777

He only received a goodie bag from his team, which contained a reusable Starbucks cup, a movie ticket, two pens, and some cheap candy—but he was still very much grateful.

thekeep777

That small gift became the moment everyone started talking about.

On June 20, 2022, his daughter, Seryna Ford, created a fundraiser to honor her dad's dedication to working in the fast food chain. The donations poured in, as many people were touched by Kevin's story—and the money was intended to allow him to visit his grandchildren.

“My dad continues to work there because, though he does look young, he is approaching retirement age, and leaving would cost him his retirement,” Seryna said. “In no way are we asking for money, nor is he expecting any money, but if anyone feels like blessing him, he would love to visit his grandchildren.”thekeep777

The support continued to pour in, and Kevin expressed his immense gratitude to the people in his videos posted on TikTok and Instagram.

“I’m headed off again to another day of work, but I love y’all, and I gotta get outta here before I start crying. This really means so much to me; God bless!” he said.“I appreciate everything that you’ve done. Now I’ll be able to take some time and go see my grandkids, spend some time with them. You guys… It’s just so beautiful,” Kevin continued in one video.thekeep777

Kevin actually has a dream to make music, and it's the one thing he would leave his job at BK for.

Have a moment to hear some of his recordings here.

JJBers (not the actual photo)

Kevin's retirement is looming, but he continues to work for Burger King. We're definitely excited to see where life takes him!

thekeep777

Take a look at some of the reactions to Kevin's story:

It’s a similar tension to the Reddit AITAH where a wife is stuck in the middle after in-laws push to fund a reckless brother.

Take a look at some of the reactions to Kevin's story:

Kelly Kuharik

Many expressed disappointment because Burger King should have recognized the efforts and loyalty of their employee, especially after he has worked for them for almost three decades.

Mimi Vader

Sadly, this does not work for everyone.

Craig Passmore

We certainly hope he receives everything he deserves!

June Meux

Companies should learn not to undervalue the people who work for them.

Franz Patrick Corrales

It's heartwarming to think that at least his team tried to make his day special.

Elaine McTernan

His loyalty and dedication are admirable, but it's truly sad to know how much they endure every day just to sustain themselves.

Sean Wallace

Some people tried to shed light on the situation with a touch of humor:

We are, too!

Regan Markley

Some people tried to shed light on the situation with a touch of humor:

Katherine Brydon Estrada

We all hope he enjoys a great retirement life.

Jennifer Stewart

True enough!

Amanda Worsham

Thank the heavens for the good hearts of strangers on the Internet, because they have definitely made Kevin's life a lot better, and he gets to see his grandkids! It's truly sad that fast food employees have to endure such poor treatment from the companies they work for, and it should have been BK's responsibility to recognize Kevin's efforts and loyalty in the first place.

Comment with your thoughts, or share this article for all your family and friends to see!

Kevin's story is a reminder that kindness from strangers can change everything.

Kevin’s viral charity story is a totally different vibe, but if you’re worried about family fallout, read whether you should refuse to lend your brother money during a financial crisis.