How One Sock Can Save A Homeless Person’s Life (VIDEO)

I once saw a man on the side of the road. He was holding a sign that said, “Homeless. Please help.” I didn’t have any cash on me, so I drove by and tried not to make eye-contact. But I did look at him. And I saw the hurt in his eyes and the frown on his face as I refused to even acknowledge his existence.

We smile at strangers as we pass them by. Why do we try so hard to avoid eye-contact with homeless people? Are we afraid? Do we think they’ll expect something from us? So often we treat them like they are the “other,” like they live in another world separate from ours and we are afraid to take a peek into it, even for a moment.

I felt awful. Even if I had no money or food, this man at least deserved to be treated as another person, with a smile and a wave. Just because I had no money didn’t mean I had to offer no compassion.

A few weeks later, I read a story about a woman who at all times carried an apple and a granola bar in her car, so she always had a healthy snack to pass out her window as she drove past people.? Inspired, I took it a step farther. This is a how-to video on creating a small, inexpensive care package to keep in your glove box in your car so you’ll always be ready to help out.

Contents:

• A warm pair of socks
• Bar of soap
• Deodorant
• Lip Balm
• Mouth Wash
• Hand sanitizer
• A tooth brush kit
• An apple
• A granola bar

Total cost: $7.00

These are items that, in my experience, are very sought after by people who live outside, especially in the winter. In summer, you might consider adding sunblock or a bottle of water. ?Some people have also suggested?McDonald’s?gift-cards.

The simple act of making this care package means you will always be prepared for showing kindness and compassion.

The next time I saw a homeless person on the side of the road, asking for help, I rolled down my window, passed out my “stocking” of goodies, and clasped his hand as he smiled and said, “God bless you.” I smiled, too, as I drove away.