A homeless expat was all smiles today after reaching his fundraising goal that will allow him to travel to Portugal to start his new job.
Ben Youssef (pictured above, centre) had been sleeping in his car around Malaga province after falling on hard times 14 months ago.
His life savings were reportedly stolen by loved ones in Tunisia, forcing him to live off his savings while trying to find work and a new start – while an investigation into the alleged theft continues.
Last month, Ben launched a GoFundMe after landing a job in the tourism industry in Portugal, as he needed €850 for travel, clothes and first month deposit on an apartment.
He has now finally met this goal following weeks of fundraising efforts by fellow expats, led by local resident Joel Kennedy.
Kennedy wrote in an update: ‘Thank all for your kind messages today, it was a pleasure to meet Ben Youssef Nazih in person and he was a real gentleman.
‘He is truly thankful for all his donations and is no longer homeless… Thank you all for your support and happy Easter holidays to you all.’
