Senior citizen James Rainey didn't know how he was going to pay his property tax bill of $321 for his Fosterville home.

He shared his concerns with Phil Barnett and Jack Kelton, volunteers for the Sheriff's Office's Senior Citizens Awareness Network.

Rainey, who is almost 80, lives on a fixed income and saved some money but not enough.

Barnett, a member of the Murfreesboro Breakfast Rotary Club, shared Rainey's dilemma with Rotary Club members who donated their own funds to pay Rainey's tax bill. Barnett paid the bill and brought Rainey the receipt.

Rainey was overcome and momentarily speechless when he saw his property tax bill was paid in full. He thanked the Rotary Club members.

In an earlier visit, SCAN volunteers noticed Rainey cut his cheek while splitting donated wood to heat his home.

"If it hit one-half-inch more, he would have lost his eye," Barnett said.

On the next visit, Barnett bought Rainey a pair of safety glasses and a face shield to protect his face while splitting wood.

"This is an early Christmas present," Barnett told him when donating the glasses and shield.

Rainey modeled the glasses and face shield. Rainey, who was in the National Guard eight years, was thankful for the help.

People who wish to volunteer to help senior citizens like Rainey are asked to contact Guice at 615-904-3139 and leave a message.