Because I care. Because I am compassionate. Because I love people. Because naturally, I am a giver. And I love serving the homeless humans.
It is my goal to transition my two tiny humans into caring, loving, considerate, humble, and thoughtful adult humans by showing them how to love unconditionally.
My first encounter with a homeless person unfortunately happened in my early 20s on a trip to Washington, DC to visit a friend who would eventually become my wife. I was so excited to see all the attractions from history books and explore downtown DC. As we drove through the tunnel, I noticed a crowd of people, and to my surprise, they were ALL homeless. Homeless, like television homeless. Dirty clothes, unclean hair, baskets filled with their little belongings, and laying or sleeping on the concrete. Instant heartbreak. Immediately, I pulled out money, but the cloud of guilt knowing I didn’t have enough money to help them ALL remained over my head the duration of the night.
I could not believe this. I wanted to know their story. How could this happen? How does one become homeless? Was it drugs? Was it money? I needed to know. My friend noticed the look of sadness on my face and reassured me of the one person I was able to help was appreciated by him. Her words served as a temporary band aid. Now, I was on a mission. I needed to find out more about the homeless population and how I could help. Over some years, I would volunteer to serve these humans, collect food to provide them, adopt families, and send cards.
Fast forward to my move to New Orleans.
Now my friend is my wife and we have
Maybe you are wondering how?
One night while cl
I’m not crying. Yes, I am. Tears of joy, happiness, and tears of hope. My tiny humans watched me selflessly help someone without judgment or second thought. Now on our new routine, we have a friend named Chris. We do the exact same thing for Chris as we did for our under the bridge friend except now we add a note of love and hope.
Ways you can help the homeless without giving money
- Give them respect. They are human. Respond with kindness. Lend a smile or say hello.
- Grab some containers from the Dollar Store and pack up your leftovers (eating out, dinner, party) before throwing them in the trash.
- Write a note of hope.
- Bring them the extra toothbrush kit you receive at your 6 month cleaning.
- Give a $5 gift card to a place nearby their location.
- Purge your closet and give them an outfit
- If you see a family, give an old toy (look under the seat, I’m sure there are a few hidden)
- Give them time. Have a quick conversation (that is how I know Chris’ name).
We have a similar routine with the homeless man who begs on our off ramp. We give him an afternoon treat and water— the dinner leftovers is a great idea! I’ll be bringing him some of those as well. Thank you for your caring heart and for teaching your children to do the same!