'She Deserved The Purse': TikTokers Are Hiding Cash In Baby Products At Stores

A TikToker found a brand new purse in the baby products aisle at a supermarket. Although bizarre, this image does not provoke much reaction at first. However, to Denaesha Gonzalez, a mother to a two-year-old, it was a symbol of motherly sacrifice. She imagined that a fellow mum had picked up the purse while shopping, but upon realizing she couldn't afford both, chose to leave it behind and put her child's needs above her desires. Thus emerged the 'She Deserved The Purse' trend.

Women Supporting Women

The displaced purse in the baby aisle sparked a wave of empathy and solidarity among social media users, creating a wholesome women supporting women movement. Gonzalez told TODAY.com, "Recently becoming a mom, having to sacrifice things, I think I resonated really with that moment."

The Tiktoker's video has now garnered over 25 million views. Many women in the US have now started stuffing cash in baby products at supermarkets to help struggling mothers. Some are even adding notes of encouragement and gift cards to remind new mothers about their worth amid the challenges.

This pattern was reportedly started by Cecily Bauchmann, whose video has over 2 million views. Gonzales reacted, “Just to see how far it’s gone, it’s just been amazing. And I’m really just grateful and just amazed by the community that’s formed within the comment section of the video.”

Trend Gone Wrong?

While the well-intentioned trend initially received all positive reactions, it has slowly started garnering criticism. Many social media users have accused privileged people of 'sad fishing' -- gaining sympathy by exaggerating problems or pretending to care about someone.

Some have also raised concerns that the trend could fall into the wrong hands, with people potentially exploiting it for personal gain rather than out of genuine compassion. Critics have suggested donating to shelters or setting up designated funds rather than leaving cash in stores.

Despite these critiques, the 'She deserved the purse' trend is rooted in a sincere desire to uplift struggling mothers and remind them to enjoy their worth. For many, the movement has become a beacon of hope, encouraging women to share their stories and recognise the sacrifices they make.