A Bridgeport woman who police say was duped by a scam artist is no longer out the $1,000 that was stolen from her.

As News 12 reported, 70-year-old Hera Powell recently went into Peoples Bank on Main Street and a woman pretending to be a good Samaritan walked with her up to the teller.

The suspect then was captured on surveillance video reaching into her purse and stealing the $1,000 she had just withdrawn to pay her monthly bills.

After the incident, Powell wasn't sure if she would have enough money to pay for basic essentials like rent and food.

The community came together and raised $1,000 to replace the money that was stolen from her.

State and local leaders presented her with a check from the nonprofit group the Needs Clearing House, which raised the money in less than 24 hours.

Powell says she'll be able to pay her rent and other bills and keep her good credit.