FOR the last three years, a mystery philanthropist has been hiding US$100 bills in and around the city of Salem, Oregon, the U.S. A total of US$50,500 worth of bills has been reported so far, but the true donated sum could be much larger.

    The first hidden US$100 bills were found at stores and events in Salem in May 2013, and new ones have been surfacing regularly ever since. As soon as local news network started covering the phenomenon, a number of people came out to claim responsibility for the generous act, so to make sure no one tried to steal his thunder again, the anonymous benefactor started signing the bills. A couple of people claiming to be his friends came forward to act as liaisons and confirm his signature, but they never revealed his identity, and always made sure to emphasize that this wasn’t about him, but about helping people in need and inspiring others to do the same.

    Capy Lynn, a journalist with the Statesman Journal, has been documenting the activity of this mystery person from the very beginning, and was the one who nicknamed him “Benny,” after Benjamin Franklin, the Founding Father of the United States featured on the US$100 bill.

    In a recent article for USA Today, she says she has been keeping track of where and when his generous gifts are found. So far, they’ve been discovered at 26 different stores, at eight different events and in a handful of different neighborhoods.

    Lucky recipients of Benny’s US$100 bills have used them to pay their electric bills, their rent or prescription medication, and even for a place to sleep for a few nights. But the most remarkable thing about Benny’s generosity is the pay-it-forward movement it has inspired in the local community. Over half of those who found hidden money reported paying it forward, either to their favorite charity or to a stranger in need. (SD-Agencies)