They quickly discovered a bothersome sight in the 92-year-old’s house. Louis Hicks has a life story that’s all about resilience and self-reliance.
From a young age, after the loss of his mother, he took on the role of caretaker for his two younger sisters, embodying the role of the man of the house with a steadfast dedication.
This early responsibility shaped him into a man who, even in his 92 years, prefers to rely on himself rather than seek help from others.
Hicks, a World War II veteran, carries a sense of pride in his self-sufficiency, a trait that has defined his life.
“You hate to ask anybody [for help] ’cause sometimes they’ll frown on you— and I’m a true veteran. I won’t ask. I won’t ask.”
The turning point came when Hicks faced a dangerous situation at home.
His heater malfunctioned, causing significant damage and even burning a hole through his floor.
Instead of seeking external assistance, which would mean stretching his already tight budget, Hicks chose to improvise with what he had.
His resolve was put to the test when he had to call 911 after witnessing an attempt to steal power tools from his shed.
This incident inadvertently brought his precarious living conditions to light when the responding officers noticed something amiss with his heating solution.
It was very dangerous, to say the least.
Thankfully, they took notice.
Officer Chastity Salazar, one of the responding officers, quickly realized the gravity of Hicks’ situation when she saw that he was using his stove for heat.
Concerned for his safety, she remarked,
“That’s just what we do as police officers. I had just realized that he’s using the oven. I know that’s not safe. His gas is on.”
This moment of realization prompted immediate action.
The Austin Police Department, along with Austin Cops 4 Charities, the Austin Police Association, and St. David’s Foundation, rallied together to provide Hicks with a much-needed heater, free of charge.
This act of kindness was a glimmer of hope for Hicks, who was overwhelmed by the generosity shown to him.
Upon receiving the heater, Hicks was visibly moved, tears streaming down his face as he expressed his gratitude.
“I’ve never had no one do nothing for me. After my mother passed away and left me to take care of my two sisters … nobody never did nothing to help me.”
This moment was a profound acknowledgment of the community’s support, something he had never experienced before.
But the generosity didn’t stop there.
The officers returned a week later with another surprise: a new electric fireplace.
This gesture, along with the outpouring of support from neighbors and the community who learned of his story, showed Hicks that kindness and compassion can indeed make a difference, touching the heart of a man who had spent a lifetime serving others.
Officer Salazar summed up the experience, saying,
“He’s just offered me a lot of kindness, too, so to know that he’s also served, and now I’m able to serve and give back to people like him.”