I live in Montana and one summer afternoon the temperature hit 105. Everyone was cranky and hot. I worked in a downtown office building and remember seeing countless numbers of homeless people laying against buildings and sitting under trees. They were clearly trying desperately to escape the scorching heat with whatever tiny piece of shade they could find amongst the hot, pavement parking lots.
Whether we consider ourselves broke or not, most of us are able to enjoy the comfort of home when the temperatures outside become unbearable. Most of us are able to enjoy a cold glass of iced-tea, while lounging in our air conditioned homes.
Some friends of mine (who wish to remain anonymous) decided that 105 was the perfect temperature for some kindness. They went to a local bulk foods warehouse and got a few cases of bottled water. Then, they walked downtown and handed ice-cold water bottles to every homeless person they encountered. Three cases of water probably cost them less than twenty dollars, yet they changed the days of dozens of people.
Can you imagine how these tired, hot and thirsty men and women must have felt when someone handed them a cold drink? I’ve often wondered if one of those water bottles may have even saved someone’s life that day. Many of those people were probably very close to dehydration after a few days of an unyielding heat wave.
If you live in a cooler climate, (or if you find this post during the winter months) you could also put together a warm pot of tea or coffee and serve the homeless people in your community. It will warm their bodies…and your soul in return.
Do you have any suggestions for “paying it forward” on a budget? Share your ideas with us in the comments section. Also, if you try any of these suggestions, stop in again and tell us about it.
Related Reading:
Being Generous on a Budget, Part One – Comfort Them With Food
I am Broke and Grateful – Three Ways to Appreciate the Things You Have
Being Generous on a Budget, Part Two – You Don’t Need to Spend a Lot…to Give a Latte