

'More Than Just Shopping' for Kanter



by Jimmy Do | okcthunder.com Photography by Zach Beeker | OKC Thunder



Weekends for Noble resident Misty Baldwin meant hosting family game nights of UNO and Pictionary for as many as 10 kids including not only her four children, but her nieces and nephews as well.

For her husband Samuel, working long hours while moonlighting at a local fast food restaurant were the sacrifices made for Misty to stay at home with their children and reinforce academics and life skills taught at school. After all, supporting the sizable Baldwin clan underscored the husband-wife duo’s devotion to doing whatever it took to raise their children one paycheck at a time.

After learning about the family's situation through the Baldwin children's Noble school of KID Elementary, Thunder center Enes Kanter spent Saturday afternoon to take the family of six on a surprise shopping spree, courtesy of Homeland.

Working with the slightest of margins in keeping expenses in check, Misty ran her household with deft efficiency and resourcefulness. Once she learned about the shopping trip, Misty wanted to be prepared in maximizing the experience by stopping by the Homeland store the day before.

“I have anywhere from six to 10 kids every weekend. I go grocery shopping for nine people every month,” said Misty. “I came in here yesterday and scoped everything out. So I already knew the route I wanted to take and how much it was going to cost.”

In praise of Mrs. Baldwin, Kanter was moved by how jovial the Baldwin kids were after spending time with them through the aisles.

“The family was super fun. The kids were amazing and really smart,” said Kanter. “The boss was the mom. They’re an unbelievable family and they love the Thunder.”

While Kanter took pleasure in helping to alleviate the Baldwin’s grocery bill, the chance to make a difference for a family in need was something he cherished most.

“It was more than just shopping here,” said Kanter. “To live for others is the most important thing.”

"Don't be shy, I don't bite." (L-R) KID Elementary fifth-grader Heylee and first-grader Journey were stunned momentarily when meeting the towering 6-foot-11 Kanter in person.

Shopping fun. The popular cart balloons were a hit with the Baldwin kids.

Mom's in charge. Misty Baldwin: "I came in here yesterday and scoped everything out. So I already knew the route I wanted to take and how much it was going to cost."

One more thing. Holding back tears, Mrs. Baldwin was left speechless after Kanter presented the family an extra Homeland gift card.

Full video: 'Living for Others'