Naugatuck man's kindness benefits shelters

Waterbury (WTNH) - For more than 20 years, Daniel Whitman of Naugatuck has been on a mission to help other people in need.

"These are toothbrush holders," Whitman said. "I left a couple of cases here and one at the shelter."

With a packed van, Whitman was dropping off supplies Wednesday at Safe Haven in Waterbury,  a center for victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence.

He's been making trips like this, to places like this, since the mid 1980's.

"I've always been a giving personality," Whitman said. "By giving I recieve and it becomes a game for me."

A game in which places like Safe Haven are clearly the winners.

Dan travels almost daily to stores, looking for discounts and donations on everything from food to clothing and school supplies.

"So many of our clients are very needy through traumatic experiences, and any little bit we're able to provide, thanks to Dan's generosity, is greatly appreciated," said Melissa Malaquitti of Safe Haven.

For people like Thia Bradley of New Haven, the supplies on these shelves can be a life saver.

"A lot of things I get from here really saves money," Bradley said. "Instead of going to the store and spending $10, $20, I go to Safe Haven."

Whitman said he's a bit embarrased by the attention, only hoping his actions will inspire others to give back.

"It's just a good feeling to give back," he said. "You can't go through your life with two catcher's mitts on both hands. You got to give back."