Hardworking Minnesota Fast Food Worker Receives Generous Gift of a Car

For over three years, Rodolfo Depaz, a dedicated cashier from Roseville, Minnesota, commuted four miles each day on foot between his two jobs at Dairy Queen and Chipotle, rarely taking time off. Despite his relentless schedule, he saved little, paying bills locally and sending most of his earnings home to his family in El Salvador.

Depaz, a father of two on a work visa, works approximately 80 hours weekly, often picking up weekend shifts, to support his loved ones. His daily routine involved waking before 5:30 a.m. to walk to his morning shift at Chipotle and then heading across town for his shift at Dairy Queen until 2:30 p.m. — a long, challenging commute without a vehicle.

His perseverance and kindness fostered strong friendships. After befriending Emily Hinderscheid and her family, Depaz was invited to share meals, and they gifted him a mountain bike to ease his commute. He also was given a Buick Century, a gift from a religious study group member, which marked a turning point in his ability to travel more comfortably.

Rodolfo Depaz works behind the counter at Dairy Queen, making the four and a half mile commute between home and his other job at a Chipotle. — Depaz at Dairy Queen, where he has worked for over three years, making his daily long walk.

Unable to afford a car, Depaz always walked his long route, from home to Chipotle in the morning, then to Dairy Queen in the afternoon. His friends, recognizing his hard work and resilience, decided to give back.

Depaz’s employer describes him as an incredibly dependable worker, never missing a shift despite weather conditions. The franchise owner also arranged for legal assistance to help him reunite with his family in the US, highlighting his unwavering dedication.

Depaz stands with his Buick Century, a gift from friends he met at a Bible study. — Depaz proudly with his new car, received from friends he met during a Bible study.

Throughout his journey, Depaz continued to send most of his earnings back to El Salvador, supporting his children. His story is one of perseverance, kindness, and the power of community support fostering hope for a better future.