On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video captured a moment showing influencer cries after strangers refused her offer to pay for grocery.
TikTok influencer Amelia Goldsmith set out to spread kindness by paying for a stranger’s groceries.
Her plan involved surprising shoppers at a Sainsbury’s store in Balham, London.
Amelia’s generous plan backfires
On the TikTok platform, Amelia planned her act of kindness at a Sainsbury’s in Balham, London.
The video showed Amelia approaching a man at the checkout and offered to cover his shopping bill.
However, he quickly declined, saying, “No, no, no. I really don’t need it.”
Undeterred, Amelia tried again with other customers.
One woman turned down the offer, explaining, “There’s a lot more deserving people in the world, but thank you. I feel too guilty for taking it.”
Amelia decided to redirect her efforts.
After several rejections, Amelia decided to use her gesture differently.
She filled a basket with pasta and sauces to donate to a local food bank.
Despite her good intentions, the experience left her visibly upset. In the car park, she tearfully shared her feelings, admitting she expected a more positive response.
“I was expecting the first person to be overjoyed and grateful,” Amelia explained. “But obviously, that didn’t go down well. He seemed a little angry.”
Amelia described feeling overwhelmed after the attempt, noting that such social situations are difficult for her.
“It was a big challenge for me because I find social situations really hard, especially when they bring attention to me,” she admitted.
Online reactions highlight practical concerns
While Amelia’s intentions were pure, some online commenters criticized her approach. Many pointed out that she chose a Sainsbury’s in a wealthier area, where shoppers might not need such assistance.
One person said: I paid for someone’s groceries in front of me because their card was declined. I can’t imagine taking my phone out to film it. It’s just so performative and gross.
A second wrote: Is it really a good deed if you have to film yourself doing it though.
While a third commented: If she offered to do it without filming it, then it would have been a genuine gesture and not just for clout.
Another added: Um. Not an influencer. Just a girl with a camera.
Someone else said: The fact she cried cos they didn’t want her help is baffling clearly not others she’s thinking about.
Although her efforts didn’t go as planned, Amelia expressed happiness about donating to the food bank.
“I’m still really happy that the food can go to those who really need it,” she concluded.
Her story sparked a conversation about the complexities of public acts of kindness and how they can be better tailored to help those in need.