Community's incredible gift for Labrador's Edward Jacques after shock act

There has been an outpouring of generosity from a Gold Coast community in the wake of a heartless vandal’s ‘devastating’ act against a man who has been living in his car for weeks. 

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A HOMELESS Labrador man whose car was vandalised has a new set of wheels thanks to an incredible outpouring of generosity from the community.

Last month, the Bulletin shared the story of Edward Jacques, who was dealt a cruel blow when a vandal smashed the windows of the car he had been living in.

Labrador resident Merv Cassidy stepped in to help, starting a fundraiser to buy Mr Jacques a new car.

The community raised more than $4500, including two anonymous donations of $1000.

Others donated their time and services to support Mr Jacques, including mechanic Jason Wilson who helped fix up the new car. 

A small group of people gathered at the Labrador boat ramp on Monday to hand over the new car to Mr Jacques, who said he was “flabbergasted” with the response.

“The community has been so wonderful and helpful. It sets the standard for what being an Aussie really is about,” Mr Jacques said.

“I can now live properly. This car allows me to travel up to Brisbane to see my young children.

“It’s so exciting for me.”

Mr Cassidy said he had made a lifelong friend in Mr Jacques.

“If it wasn’t for the Labrador community, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” he said.

“There’s been a lot of people involved in this, emotionally and financially.”

Homeless Labrador man Edward Jacques who had his car vandalised has picked up his new set of wheels after an outpouring of generosity from the community. Picture Glenn Hampson

Labrador community rallies for homeless man after vandal’s low act - July 28

A HOMELESS Gold Coast man says his heart is “bursting with gratitude” after an outpouring of generosity from the Labrador community in the wake of a “devastating” act. 

Edward Jacques – who has been living in his car for the past five weeks – was dealt a cruel blow when a vandal smashed the windows of the vehicle.

The thoughtless act shattered the only thing providing warmth to Mr Jacques on cold winter nights.

Edward Jacques in Labrador with the smashed car. Picture: Melanie Whiting

Merv Cassidy and his wife – who often waved to Mr Jacques during their regular walks along the Labrador broadwater – were shocked to discover what had happened.

Mr Cassidy learnt the car had been targeted while Mr Jacques was using a computer at the Southport library.

“He was naturally devastated to have his home smashed to pieces,” Mr Cassidy said.

With Mr Jacques’ permission, the Labrador resident posted photographs of the incident to a community Facebook page.

Edward Jacques and Merv Cassidy in Labrador with the smashed car. Picture: Melanie Whiting

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He then teamed up with another group member, Hemma Owen, to start a fundraising campaign to buy Mr Jacques a new car.

They have now raised more than $1000 for the cause through an online fundraiser and donations from passers-by.

Mr Cassidy said Southport police and Gold Coast City Council had stepped in to track down CCTV footage of the incident to help catch the offender.

“I know we can’t help all homeless people, but if we can help at least one, that makes a difference,” he said.

A vandal smashed homeless man Edward Jacques' car. Picture: Melanie Whiting

Mr Jacques said the act of kindness had restored his faith in humanity.

“It’s devastating to have this happen to your home,” he said.

“But then Merv came along the very next day … and every day he’s been marching forward with fundraising.

“My heart is bursting with gratitude.”

To donate money towards a new car for Edward Jacques, visit here.

A vandal smashed homeless man Edward Jacques' car. Picture: Melanie Whiting

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