How a Homeless College Student Went from a Tent to $184K for His Education

A GoFundMe page raised over $184K for a homeless college student after people heard his story of biking hours in 100 degree Georgia heat - just to get back to school.

According to local news station WSB-TV Atlanta, Fred Barley was a homeless man living in Conyers, Georgia. He had two options: stay living in a tent or go back to college.

He set off on his journey from Conyers to Barnsville on his little brother's bike. He said in an interview that the journey was "like crossfit--but only in your thighs."

Once Barley, a biology major carrying two duffel bags of everything he owned, arrived on Gordon State College's campus, he set up a tent behind some bushes and planned to live inside until the dorms opened. He registered for his second semester of classes. 

Barley had a box of cereal and 2 gallons of water to sustain him. 

When police officers found Barley they told him he could not stay in his tent, and instead set him up in a hotel for a weekend after hearing his story of perseverance.

Barley told WSB-TV: "(The officer) was so understanding and he said, 'I definitely I applaud you for doing this. We can't allow you to stay here, but I have somewhere you can stay.'"

"The stuff that's happening with police officers, I am black and he didn't care what color I was. He just helped me, and that meant a lot," he added.

A Barnesville, Georgia woman heard Barley's story and posted it on a community Facebook page. Hundreds decided to help. Casey Blaney heard of Barley's story and met with him. She started looking around town with him to help him find a job. 

At DB's Pizzeria, owner Debra Adamson hired Barley instantly.

"She hired me on the spot. She didn't even know my first or last name," Barley told FOX 5 with joy.

Adamson said, "I created a position for him before he walked in my door. I didn't know his name. I didn't know the color of his skin. I didn't care."

"I've been there, so I guess I had a soft spot for anyone who is that determined to succeed in life," she said.

With dreams of going to medical school one day Barley hopes to keep good grades and spend money from supporters in order to further his education. He also wants to keep supporters updated on his grades and academic progress. 

"I was shocked by how much support people will give from Lamar County and counties all over and even people from across the country that I've never met just wanted to help so much in my life. I was just so shocked and grateful," Barley told WSB-TV.

"The Bible says, 'You can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,' so I know I can," he said. "My legs are working. Millions of people walk and bike to work every day. I definitely think I can bike a couple hours to get to my future."

Donations on his GoFundMe page are now complete. However, if you would like to send an encouraging letter or card, Blaney has provided the following address:
Fred Barley
c/o Casey Blaney
PO Box 631
Barnesville, GA 30204