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I tend not to give to the traditional man in the street with a sign, I pick and choose based on my gut. So many of the sign holders are just drunks looking for a bottle of cheap booze. Not that I am judging them, but I don't wish to contribute to their demise.
On the other hand, I am always helping needy people out. About a month ago I went to HT for a late night snack and I walked in behind a very old man who caught my attention. I could tell he was likely homeless or very poor. As I went near the checkout line the old man was standing off to the side holding a package of cooked ribs with potatoes and some bread and rolls. He was digging through his pockets gathering all his few dollars and change. As I watched him count the money it became obvious he did not have enough $, so he started back down the isle and put the meat packet away. I walked up behind him and told him "I got it." I told him I would buy him whatever he wanted to eat. He objected at first as he did not want me to pay for it. But then he said he was real hungry and asked if I would mind, as he was running short on money for the month.
Fast forwarding, I bought the few food items he had and he was most grateful for it. As we went into the parking lot, he told me his story about how he had suffered a severe head injury some 10 years ago and had neurological problems and was unable to work. I noticed he had tremors like someone with Parkinson's. He was in rough shape. He lost his job, family and life as he knew it. He got some assistance but often fell short each month. He told me how he resided in a low income apartment complex and he was the victim of frequent theft and often found the streets a better place to stay then in his own junky studio. He lives with criminals and so on. As we parted ways, I tried to give him $100 and he would not accept it. So I told him I was going to leave on the ground and walk away and if he did not take it, someone else would. He finally accepted the $ and was so thankful he began crying right there on the spot. No greater feeling on this earth then helping out someone whom really needs it. They key being, who really needs it.
I feel so blessed, too. I'm a small business owner, and things are picking up, for which I am grateful. My clients are all such good folks.
If you want to help the less fortunate, please don't forget the animals. In tough economic times, people are sometimes forced to give up their beloved pets, and fewer people are adopting. They need help.
ExitMANow-
I drive down I-40 to work and I pass three guys in the median. I'm one of the folks that frequently passes them a buck or two, though I don't usually carry much cash. After seeing your post last night, I decided to do something I've been thinking about for a while. I stopped at McDonalds and got three breakfasts in three bags, and gave them to those three guys this morning. The look on their faces was priceless. One said he couldn't take my breakfast and when I explained that I bought it for him, he teared up and said that no one had ever done that before. The other two were equally thankful and so cheered.
A lot of my co-workers and even my husband say I shouldn't give them money. I didn't tell them about breakfast. The only reason I'm posting about it is to say thanks for inspiring me and hopefully to inspire someone else to stop by McDonald's tomorrow
ExitMANow-
I drive down I-40 to work and I pass three guys in the median. I'm one of the folks that frequently passes them a buck or two, though I don't usually carry much cash. After seeing your post last night, I decided to do something I've been thinking about for a while. I stopped at McDonalds and got three breakfasts in three bags, and gave them to those three guys this morning. The look on their faces was priceless. One said he couldn't take my breakfast and when I explained that I bought it for him, he teared up and said that no one had ever done that before. The other two were equally thankful and so cheered.
A lot of my co-workers and even my husband say I shouldn't give them money. I didn't tell them about breakfast. The only reason I'm posting about it is to say thanks for inspiring me and hopefully to inspire someone else to stop by McDonald's tomorrow
Good for you Chicky. I did the same thing for a fellow a while back. It's a great way to do something for someone who needs it, while not giving cash that would be used for something bad.
This is going swimmingly. The best is coming out of everyone. Sometimes when times are tough, people actually give more as it dawns on them how lucky they really are. I am smiling ear to ear right now.
What a wonderful thread ! - Thank you and Happy thanksgiving.
I am really thankful for everything I and my family have. Hopefully I can donate enough to make another family happy this holiday season(even if it is for a day ).
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
I love the idea of giving meals to homeless rather than cash. On occassion, some people "pose" as homeless to make $ Sad but true. Many of the alcoholics have mental disorders and alcohol is their way of self-medicating when they are not receiving the appropriate treatment they need. Offering a meal is kind and it will show the difference between a person who is really hungry and one who is looking for cash.
Lets not forget about the shelters though, just a few dollars of canned goods can feed a lot of people. The shelters provide food, warmth and a sense of community. For those to have time to serve, this is also an awesome opportunity to meet great people and do something wonderful
You can also buy gift cards from fast food restaurants to give to the people. I don't think they can change them for cash and they can get what they want. You can carry several in your car to hand to someone when the mood strikes you. :-)
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There is need all around...
