At the holidays we’re all so busy wrapped up in ourselves, our families and our friends that we often don’t stop to think of people outside of our bubble.  I’m sure like me, you’ve received countless emails from various organizations asking for money and most likely you’ve quickly deleted them or maybe in your rush to get somewhere you haven’t had time yet to slip $1 into the hanging pail the Salvation Army Bell Ringers hold.  As Chanukah quickly goes by and Christmas nears, take the time to slow down and see where you can help.

In an effort to do something good for others I created my own way of giving that might work for you too!  I live in Chicago where there are countless homeless people and it always breaks my heart to see them out in the freezing temps this time of year.  This will be the second year that I will pass out gift cards to them so they can get a hot meal.  Many don’t like to give people money as they’re not sure what the person will use it for.  This is a great way to give money but be certain that it will spent on a hot meal.  I have chosen a particular fast food establishment which I will not name as to be honest I don’t even eat there since even their fries have beef flavoring on them and nor do I really care to advertise them but they’re on nearly every block downtown.  Thus, they’re convenient, cheap, provide three meals a day and are open long hours, and as far as I can tell wouldn’t discriminate a homeless person coming in to purchase food.

I purchased several $10 gift cards which should cover a meal and a cup or two of hot coffee on other occasions.  I simply take a marker and write $10 on the plastic gift card and pass them out to the people that I see on a regular basis downtown.  It’s a small gesture but I’m happy to know they’ll be able to enjoy a little warm food on these terribly cold winter days.