OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee residents were furious when they discovered a homeless man’s belongings had been stolen.

Known only as Ross, this man spends his days playing his guitar near the Handy Store in front of Home Depot hoping those who pass by might be kind enough to tip him and enable him to buy dinner each night.

All of Ross’ belongings were stolen this weekend when he left them outside while he went into the Handy Store to use the restroom.

According to friends, he lost everything, his guitar, his clothing, his phone, his backpack, sleeping bag, pillow, etc.

Tonya Campbell posted about the theft on a Facebook page called The Scoup, indignant that anyone could be so cruel to a man who was already down on his luck.

"Stealing from a homeless man is about as low as you can get, " wrote  Bob Gable.

Within an hour, there were more than 100 outraged comments, with many offering to help the man. Several said they had guitars they were willing to give him. Many offered money, sleeping bag, etc. He was also advised to head to The Closet on Northeast Second Street to replace his clothing. One woman even offered to help him replace his identification and his phone.

A few hours later, an update was posted by Michele and Leroy Wise saying they took a guitar to Ross and another man gave him $100. Someone else donated a hard case for the guitar, and the music store has donated the other supplies Ross needs for the guitar.  Hopefully, Ross sees that even though he had a very bad experience, many in Okeechobee have a heart and take care of their own.