“You deserve more”: Company slammed over measly send-off party
A company has been slammed online for their measly attempt to farewell a hard-working employee of 42 years.
John Barlett was a dedicated worker for four decades, commuting long distances to work at minimum wage and give his all to his colleagues.
After 42 years of hard work, John announced his retirement from the company, prompting a measly farewell party from his place of work.
One of John’s longtime co-worker, Sonia, was devastated over the injustice, sharing a short clip to social media of John – now in his 70s – and what she felt was his hard work going unappreciated.
“Today is my co-worker’s last day. He worked for this company for 42 years making minimum wage,” Sonia wrote with the video.
“The company only threw him a barbecue and gave him a certificate. He takes the bus and Bart (train) to get here every day on time. He’s 70+.”
“He loves working here so much he didn’t want to retire. [He got] No bonus, just a barbecue and a certificate. Don’t be a slave to your job. Thank you John for your loyalty.”
The video quickly went viral and was flooded with comments of support for John, with one person even suggesting that John start a GoFundMe for people to contribute to his retirement.
In the fundraiser, she revealed John could not drive because of a disability, but “rain or shine” would always make it to work.
He was “extremely dependable”, Sonia added, revealing it had been difficult to convince him to take a break because he always wanted to work.
He was “one of the most talented and hard working” employees at the company and his energy was “unmatched”, she said.
“He has no wife or kids, however he does have a nephew whom he loves dearly,” she wrote in the fundraiser.
“It would be nice to give him some kind of company or something to do so he knows that he’s special and loved.”
In the few days since the GoFundMe was created, it has raised almost $45,000, as many shared their comments of support.
One person wrote, “Happy retirement, John. You deserve more than what this company has offered you. Wish you all the best in your life and your future.”
Image credits: GoFundMe