this post was submitted on 12 Jul 2024
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Years ago, I used to live in a neigborhood just down from what they called 'the projects.' Those who couldn't get into Section 8 housing would spill over onto the streets. One time we had a pretty harsh cold snap. Several people died. A few of us started buying tents, sleeping bags, and blankets from Costco and handing them out to those camping on the sidewalks or side streets.
Now, we live in an area that has pretty good food and housing non-profits, so we donate to them every year. I generally don't give to individuals, hoping our donations, aggregated with others, will reach more people in need.
During COVID, a local non-profit with an urban garden set up an outdoor fridge and pantry for those sleeping around the perimeter. The non-profit would load it up with any excess produce. But word got out and people started donating, usually leftovers from restaurants. We started going to discount grocery stores and buying bulk foods and stocking up the fridge once a month. Took the kids and had them do the stocking up, just to normalize it.
We're beyond lucky not to be in that situation and feel strongly that we should help where we can. Paying it forward and all. I don't think anyone who is pinched should feel bad, but those who can afford it, should.
We've never mentioned any of this to any friends or family. I only bring it up here, hoping more people feel inspired to step up.
I think that's a good rule, but it's not for everyone, i.e., People actually would like to see their money do good, (it's easier to see a thankful smile on someone than get a digital message on a website) and let's not forget, people would have to do their own research before donating, because let's be honest, there so many scammy non-profits made to make money for their corporate overlords (not to mention the conversion rate), if a non-profit is separately pooling money for administration expenses, I would be more likely to trust them. Also, rest of the comment is pretty nice, thanks for the comment!