TAMPA, FL -- Like many in the Bay area, Janet Santiago is finding it hard getting through these tough economic times. Throw in the fact she that is raising four of her grandchildren, and money is very tight.
For the last year and half, Santiago and her grandchildren have set up shop on the side of the road selling water bottles for a dollar each. They hold up a sign reading, "Grandma Struggling, raising 4 teens. Ice cold water $1.00."
Most of those who stop at their spot at the intersection of Dale Mabry Highway and Bearss Avenue pay a dollar.
But others have given much more. Santiago says a woman once wrote her a $2,000 check when she was told that's how much Santiago needed to pay her property taxes.
"I couldn't do anything but bow my head. For me to be speechless, it takes a lot," said Santaigo.
Santiago sits in a motorized chair; she is physically unable to work. Her grandchildren would rather be out doing other things, but they say they've learned they have to work for the things they want and need.
