Pack a gender-specific, reusable bag with gently used clothes, including warm layers like socks and shoes, if possible, for a homeless person. If you are fortunate enough to travel and stay in hotels, save sample-size shampoos, soaps and lotions, which can also be a benefit to a person in need. Plus, razor is nice for men, and tampons and sanitary napkins for women. Don’t forget about the free post-dental visit toothpaste, dental floss and toothbrush. Some of us never need to use them. Why not include those valuable supplies in the gift bag? If you have a spare Cliff Bar or $5, tuck those in, too.
This small simple act of kindness can really help a person who may not have clean, dry clothes after a night in the rain. Consider all the things you have and all the things you throw away. This could be the shift we need. Here’s your chance to love thy neighbor, especially the house-less one.
My pictures of Anthony Hernandez’s photographs showing now at SFMOMA
