Dozens of Florida families can breathe a sigh of relief this holiday season thanks to a veteran whose past struggles inspired him to give back.

When Michael Esmond received his utility bill for the month of December, he was reminded of a time back in the 1980s when he had trouble making ends meet.

Since Esmond was unable to pay the bill on time, the utility company had actually cut off his gas connection during what he calls "one of the coldest winters in Florida history". For the rest of the cold season, Esmond was without heating-all while temperatures dropped into the single-digits.

Thankfully, Esmond is not as cash-strapped as he once was; he now owns a small business called Gulf Breeze Pools and Spas in Gulf Breeze, Florida.

So as Esmond was preparing to pay this months gas bill, he felt inspired to share his good fortune with other people struggling with the same financial difficulties.

He then called the local utility company and asked to pay the bills for all of the households at risk of having their gas and power cut off. In total, he paid $4,600 worth of utility bills for 36 families.

Not only does Esmond hope his good deed will help struggling homeowners during the holiday season, he also hopes the gesture will inspire other small business owners to give back to their community.

(WATCH the interview below) - Photo by WEAR-TV

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