A simple texting mistake turned into a heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition that has now lasted a decade. Ten years ago, Arizona grandmother Wanda Dench meant to text her grandson about Thanksgiving plans, but accidentally messaged a stranger instead. That stranger was teenager Jamal Hinton, who asked her to confirm who she was by sending a photo. Realizing her mistake, Dench expected the conversation to end — but Hinton replied with a joke asking if he could still get a plate of food.

Dench said yes, and that unexpected exchange sparked a friendship neither of them anticipated. Since that day, Dench and Hinton have met every year for Thanksgiving. In 2025, they are celebrating their 10th holiday together, a tradition that has captured hearts online and repeatedly gone viral. Speaking to People, Dench said she believes their connection was meant to be.