BERRIEN COUNTY, MI (WSBT) — In July, a seven-year-old girl suddenly lost her horse and was desperately trying to raise money for a new horse for a fair in August.

She wanted to raise money for a new horse, but when a stranger heard her story about the loss of her horse, he stepped forward and paid for the replacement.

After weeks of raising money, 7-year-old Maylie Bell reached her goal.

With the help of a kind stranger, she was able to purchase her new horse, Ruby.

A little over a month ago, Maylie set a goal to raise money to buy a new horse.

Her mother Angela said she never thought it would turn out this way.

Maylie’s old horse died of colic, a loss that did not discourage Maylie.

Instead, she began collecting cans, cash and animal donations for her cause.

After the stranger agreed to buy her a new horse, she no longer needed the other donations.

So Maylie auctioned off the donated animals: a bunny, a turkey and some chickens.

Her mother Angela said she couldn’t believe how it all fit together.

“I was crying like a little kid, jumping up and down and couldn’t believe it. She was so excited that she was going to buy a pony,” said Angela Bell.

Maylie has already ridden and played with Ruby and said she is a great horse.

And the best thing about Ruby? Maylie said, “Because I got bored riding my brother and sister’s horses.”

Now that Maylie has Ruby, she is focused on giving back to her community and helping those who were so quick to step in.

She plans to donate the proceeds from her auction and any money already raised to the Buchanan Westerner’s Riding Club.

“Because she performs there every year and they need money for work in the arena. She wants to continue performing there so that the arena stays in good shape,” said Angela.

Angela also said that it was beautiful to witness this experience.

“What I liked most was her drive, but also the support of the community. It was wonderful,” said Angela.

Maylie’s message to this kind stranger: “Thank you!”