When the Carabellos moved their large family into a new home in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, they worried about how their neighbors would react. However, not only did they make friends with other residents, but they also gained a family member. Paul Callahan, an 82-year-old widower from across the street, was eager to lend the new homeowners a hand with any home improvement projects. Soon, he became a permanent fixture in their lives.

“The kids run up to him like that’s their grandfather,” Sharaine, the children’s mother, told USA Today. “Paul is definitely a family member. He’s no longer considered a neighbor.”

This family got a little bigger when they adopted their elderly neighbor.

Not only does Paul drop by to help out with the kids on a near-daily basis, he’s also welcome at every gathering and celebration. He says he’s glad that he reached out and got to know his neighbors.

“If you don’t take a chance, you may miss a friend,” Paul said.

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