The Grandma Stand in downtown McKinney, Texas, is a small public booth where three rotating volunteers—dubbed “Grandma McKinneys”—offer free advice, comfort and conversation to anyone who stops by. Volunteer “Grandma Nancy” says visitors bring everything from minor frustrations to major losses, and that grandmothers are nonjudgmental listeners. The concept began in New York in 2012 when Mike Matthews started a Zoom stand for his 95-year-old grandmother, later building a nonprofit to expand the idea nationwide.
‘Grandma Stand’ Brings Free Advice, Comfort and Kindness to Downtown McKinney
CBS Evening News/YoutubeThe Grandma Stand in McKinney, Texas
A warm-hearted holiday initiative has taken root in downtown McKinney, Texas: a public booth staffed by local grandmothers who offer free advice, comfort and friendly conversation to anyone who stops by.
The pop-up, known locally as The Grandma Stand, features three rotating volunteers—billed as “Grandma McKinneys”—who sit in the city center and invite passersby to take a seat and share what’s on their mind. The project has been covered by CBS News, ABC 8 and North Texas e-News.
“Grandma Nancy,” one of the volunteers, told CBS News that her daughter signed her up and that she has found the experience deeply rewarding. “I absolutely love it,” she said, describing grandmothers as “nonjudgmental and loving people.” She added that sometimes it’s easier to open up to a friendly stranger while still feeling an emotional connection.
“Anything from ‘I lost my pet,’ to ‘I lost my grandma,’ to ‘my basketball team lost last night,’” Grandma Nancy said, noting visitors bring everything from small frustrations to significant losses.
The volunteer’s stated goal is simple: to spread more kindness, patience and love in the community. “If there's a choice between being kind and being unkind … choose kindness. And choose love. And choose patience,” she told the network.
Origins And Impact
The Grandma Stand concept began in New York City in 2012, when Mike Matthews set up a local stand so his 95-year-old grandmother, Eileen, could offer words of wisdom and support over Zoom. Matthews later organized a nonprofit to expand the idea to other cities. He has said the project benefited Eileen as much as it helped those she spoke to; she told him it gave her purpose and extended her life. Eileen ultimately lived to 102.
The McKinney installation follows that national spread and offers an in-person version of the comforting, community-focused concept. Organizers and volunteers say the stands can benefit both visitors—who gain a listening ear and practical advice—and elderly volunteers, who often find renewed purpose and connection.
Where: Downtown McKinney, Texas
Who: Three rotating local volunteers (the “Grandma McKinneys”)
Why: To offer kindness, listening and community connection
