Photo: Madison Rogers/WBZ NewsRadio
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Sajid Bhatti has owned the UPS Store near Porter Square in Cambridge for the past 15 years.
Seven days a week, he's moved boxes and rung up customers, but it's been his warm character that's left such an impact on neighbors.
He became family to the community, a friend to everyone who stepped foot into the store.
"This place brings great joy to me," said Bhatti. "Just the interactions with customers. They share their stories every day, and every interaction is more exciting than the one before. It's simply marvelous."
Now, customers are sad to say goodbye. Bhatti plans to move to the Virgin Islands, and says he may start a new business after taking a few months to relax.
To honor his years of hard work and kindness, community members held a farewell block party. Even Senator Elizabeth Warren and State Representative Marjorie Decker took part in the celebration.
Rep. Decker issued an official proclamation recognizing Bhatti for his 'years of service to the neighborhood.' One local wrote Bhatti a heartfelt poem. Others signed well-wishes and thanks on a big cardboard box.
Store regulars say Bhatti has made the store much more than just a place to drop off packages.
"They know who we are by name, and we know them by name," said neighbor Eileen. "That personal touch is so old fashioned—like a little village. I think we all crave that."
Bhatti says he'll keep running the store through the end of the year.
"I love this place, my customers are like my family to me," he said. "Once I leave, I'm going to miss them."
WBZ NewsRadio's Madison Rogers (@madisonwbz) reports.
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