Albert Lexie has been shining shoes at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh since the 1980s. He donates all of his tips to the hospital’s Free Care Fund, which ensures that all child patients receive the medical care they need regardless of their families’ ability to pay. What makes this gesture so awe-inspiring is that Mr. Lexie only earns about $10,000 a year. Mr. Lexie refers to the patients and children at the hospital as “Albert’s kids.” Check out the videos below, highlighting Albert’s incredible story. The purple cart Albert uses was designed and manufactured by Salco Engineering.
Albert Lexie: A Legacy of Giving to Children’s Hospital
Albert Lexie, a humble shoeshiner from Monessen, Pennsylvania, dedicated more than three decades of his life to making a difference in the lives of children at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. His story is a profound testament to the power of kindness, commitment, and selfless generosity.
A Life Dedicated to Helping Sick Children
Beginning in the early 1980s, Albert Lexie traveled by bus twice a week to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. There, he set up his shoeshine stand in the hospital lobby, charging modest fees for his services. Remarkably, Lexie donated every tip he earned to the hospital’s Free Care Fund, a program designed to ensure all children receive necessary medical care regardless of their families’ financial situations.
Through small, consistent acts of giving, Lexie made a significant impact. By the time he retired in 2013, he had donated more than $200,000 to the fund, a staggering contribution given his modest annual income of approximately $10,000.
A Beloved Figure at Children’s Hospital
Albert Lexie became more than a shoeshiner at the hospital—he became a cherished member of the community. He referred to the young patients as “Albert’s kids,” underscoring his personal connection to the cause he supported so tirelessly. Families found comfort in his presence, and his unwavering dedication inspired hope during challenging times.
His purple shoeshine cart, a distinctive symbol of his mission, was manufactured by Salco Engineering. This cart became an emblem of his dedication, reflecting the community’s collective support for his work and mission.
Recognition and Honors
Albert Lexie’s dedication did not go unnoticed. In 2006, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame for Caring Americans by the Caring Institute. Additionally, in 2010, he was recognized by People magazine’s “All-Stars Among Us” program and honored at the Major League Baseball All-Star Game in Anaheim, California. These accolades celebrated his extraordinary contributions to society and cemented his reputation as a model of selflessness.
The Impact of Small Acts of Kindness
Albert Lexie’s life serves as a reminder that small, consistent acts of kindness can lead to profound change. His commitment to donating his tips—no matter how modest—created a ripple effect that benefited countless children and families. As he often said, “I shine shoes, and I give my tips to the Free Care Fund.” This simple statement embodies a lifetime of purpose and generosity.
Continuing the Legacy
Albert Lexie passed away on October 16, 2018, at the age of 76, but his legacy endures. His story continues to inspire acts of kindness and generosity, proving that anyone, regardless of their circumstances, can make a lasting impact. To learn more about Albert Lexie and his extraordinary contributions, visit the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Albert’s biography, *Albert’s Kids: The Heroic Work of Shining Shoes for Sick Children*, published in 2012, offers an in-depth look at his remarkable life and mission. His story is a call to action for all of us to find ways to give back and make a difference in our communities.
Legacy That Lives On
Albert Lexie’s work exemplifies the profound impact of compassion and selflessness. His contributions to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh have not only provided critical financial support but also inspired countless others to act with generosity and purpose. His life reminds us that even small actions, done consistently, can change lives for the better.