Who says good things don’t happen on Friday the 13th?

That’s the day the Richmond Free Press received a $500 check for newlyweds Donald McWilliams Jr. and Roberta Jennings.

A reader who wishes to remain unnamed read their story on the front page of the Dec. 5-7 edition of the Free Press and wanted to help the couple who tied the knot Dec. 7 on a mini-chapel float sponsored by the Richmond Heritage Federal Credit Union in the annual Richmond Christmas Parade.

“Since they both have previously had hard times,” the letter stated, “I would like to assist them in a small way as they move ahead with their lives.”

Mr. McWilliams, 59, and Ms. Jennings, 56, who met while both were experiencing homelessness, chose to hold their wedding on the float as part of a partnership between the credit union and the float owners, Tiny Chapel Weddings, because it would save money and create a lasting memory.

Mr. McWilliams and Randy Cooper, president and chief executive officer of the credit union, picked up the check Monday during a tour of the Free Press office.

Mr. McWilliams thanked the donor for such generosity, adding that the money will be put toward the couple’s heating needs this winter. The couple already has plans for a gift to send to their benefactor.

“It was very well-needed,” Mr. McWilliams said, offering holiday and New Year’s wishes to the donor, as well as to others who helped make their wedding memorable.