From The PB Millionaire Himself
Those of you who know my story, know that I was once homeless, living out of my car because I couldn’t afford the high cost of rent when I first moved here to San Diego from the Midwest. Even though I had a college degree, I had a hard time finding employment and painted houses as a means to get by. Ironically, I became a millionaire by inventing a new type of goggles for spray painting.
So you can understand my compassion when I see homeless people on the street. Even though you might not have much money yourself, there are ways you can help them. Go to the 99 cent store and buy about a half dozen gift bags about the size of grocery bags. Then fill them up with non-perishable items that will not spoil if left in your car for awhile. Here are some suggestions: bottled water, Gatorade, applesauce, raisins, nuts, cheese and crackers, beef jerky, protein bars, V-8 juice, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and be sure to include a plastic spoon if they need one for any of your items.
Also, you probably have an old sweatshirt, hoodie, or jacket in your closet that you never wear that you can add to the bag as well. And, you might have a blanket that is never used – this is an essential item for the homeless in the winter months.
If it’s not too much of an economical pinch for you, include a little cash or a gift card to Subway, McDonald’s, Taco Bell or whatever inexpensive restaurants you have in your area. Now just keep a few of these “Homeless Survival Bags” in your car and the next time you see a homeless person on the street, just roll down your window and hand them a bag. It’s so simple but you probably don’t realize how much they appreciate it. I’ve had some of them break into tears.
God Bless!
– Jim