The teen is described as a local celebrity by actor Michael Abbott Jr., who told WJHL, "Jake sits outside the house and has a sign that says ‘honk if you're happy.' He's an incredible young man."

Abbott promised Jake that they would raise enough money by Thanksgiving, however the $35,000 that community members had already put toward the cost of the van will now go to the Stitt family after J.T. so generously stepped up.