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NEW YORK (AP) - A wealthy Kansas City businessman has answered the prayers of some New Yorkers ravaged by Sandy, appearing as a "Secret Santa" handing out $100 bills to some who'd lost everything.

The anonymous benefactor is spending $100,000 this holiday season for such acts of kindness, including visits Thursday to the New York borough of Staten Island and neighboring Elizabeth, N.J.

He walked up to surprised strangers, thrusting crisp bills into the hands of some who'd lost homes and belongings. "You're not alone, God bless you," he told a couple whose home was badly damaged but now had an extra $300 in cash for rebuilding.

Keeping close watch over the cash handouts were police officers from New York and New Jersey, plus FBI agents and former agents from various states. They provided security and helped him choose locations where people are most in need.

Olivia Bazile, an unemployed mother of five, said, "I feel like I just got a million dollars. It's only $100, but God is good all the time."