HUDSON, Fla. — Just over a month after a thief stole his favorite wheelchair from in front of his home, Hudson resident Jim Stoudth is getting a brand-new, custom-built wheelchair and more from his community.

Jim Stoudth has been paraplegic for over 30 years and says it hasn’t stopped him from getting around. 

But using a spare wheelchair that doesn’t fit his unique needs can sometimes stop him in his tracks. 

“It’s not as comfortable as a chair that's built to suit my needs,” says Stoudth.

Stoudth's favorite wheelchair was stolen on August 7. Police found it in a stolen car a short time later, but it was no longer usable. 

Since the theft, Stoudth has been using his spare chair. Hudson restaurant owner Rich Solkin wanted to change that. 

“I was watching Bay News 9 with my son, and my son was like, 'Dad we should help him,’” says Solkin, Owner of Kickin’ Wingz restaurant. 

Solkin wasn't alone in the community in wanting to help, either. Other businesses like Legacy Auto Detailing in Tarpon Springs wanted to chip in, too. 

“As soon as we read what happened, we were ready to write a check,” says Kayla Hunt, owner of Legacy Auto Detailing.

The group of area businesses ended up raising $4,000 for Stoudth ... in one day of fundraising. 

A portion of those funds went to ordering a custom-made wheelchair for Stoudth. 

“I just couldn’t believe it," he said. "I still can’t believe it.” 

“The community has been amazing, that’s why I love it here,” says Solkin. 

The money left over after ordering Stoudth's new wheelchair was donated to the organization Wheelchairs 4 Kids.