Single Mom Gets Unbelievable Tip from Donnie Wahlberg at IHOP—He Tells Her to Open It After Leaving

In a world where many people are working very hard to make ends meet, a simple act of kindness can change a person’s life. This is the story of Bethany Provencher, a dedicated single mother who received a life-changing surprise while working her shift at an IHOP restaurant.

A New Start and Hard Work

Bethany Provencher is a mother who works very hard to care for her 11-year-old son. A few years ago, she decided to move from Miami to St. Charles, Illinois. She wanted a fresh start and a better life for her small family. Moving to a new state is never easy. It means finding a new home, a new school for her son, and a new job.

Bethany found a modest apartment, but things were tight. She did not have enough money to buy furniture for her new place. Despite these struggles, she stayed positive. She has spent over 25 years working in the customer service industry. Because she is professional and friendly, she was able to get a job at a local IHOP.

Working in a restaurant is a tough job. The hours are long, and you have to stay on your feet all day. For Bethany, this job was her “lifeline.” It was the way she made sure her son had everything he needed.

An Unexpected Guest

One afternoon, the day seemed like any other until a famous couple walked through the doors. Donnie Wahlberg, a member of the band New Kids on the Block, came in to eat with his wife, Jenny McCarthy.

Bethany was a huge fan of Donnie’s music. Seeing him in person at her workplace was a massive shock. She had to stay professional, even though she was very excited inside.

“I couldn’t believe it,” Bethany said later. “It was one thing to see him on television or hear him on the radio, but to have him sitting at my table—it was a dream come true.”

The “2020 Tip Challenge”

Bethany served the couple with the same care she gave to all her customers. When they were finished with their meal, Donnie had a special request. He asked her not to open the receipt until after he and his wife had left the building.

Bethany followed his instructions. When she finally looked at the bill, she was stunned. On a check for a small amount of food, Donnie Wahlberg had left a tip of $2,020. He also wrote a sweet note: “Thanks, Bethany, Happy New Year. 2020 Tip Challenge.”

This was not just a little bit of extra money. For a single mom struggling to furnish an apartment, it was a miracle.

Why This Moment Mattered

The money helped Bethany buy things for her home, but the feeling it gave her was even more important. It made her feel like her hard work was finally being seen.

“It wasn’t just about the money,” she explained. “It was about feeling appreciated, seen, and recognized for the hard work I put in every single day. That tip changed my outlook—it reminded me that kindness exists in the world, and it motivated me to keep going.”

Donnie Wahlberg is known for being very generous. By taking part in the “Tip Challenge,” he showed how much he appreciates people who work in the service industry. These workers often deal with a lot of stress, especially during the holidays.

A Message of Hope

Bethany’s story went viral on social media. People everywhere were moved by Donnie’s kindness and Bethany’s dedication. It reminded everyone that service workers deserve respect and that even a small gesture can have a huge impact.

Even though Bethany still works hard every day, she does it with a different spirit now. She knows that what she does is important.

“It reminded me why I work so hard every day,” Bethany shared. “It wasn’t just about serving pancakes—it was about serving people with care, respect, and attention. That tip, and the thought behind it, reminded me that what I do matters, even if sometimes it feels unnoticed.”

The story of Bethany and the famous singer is a beautiful example of how we can all help each other. For Bethany, the gift was a sign that she was on the right path.

“I’m incredibly grateful for that moment,” Bethany said. “It showed me that no matter how hard life gets, kindness and generosity still exist, and they can come when you least expect them.”

This event shows us that hard work is valuable. It also proves that when people use their success to help others, it creates a chain of happiness that reaches far beyond a single restaurant table.