I was leaving Walmart the other day and saw a young man standing by the exit. He was holding a sign that read, "Even 50 cents would help."
My heart went out to him because he looked to be the same age as my son. I didn't want to give him money, so I decided to drive to McDonalds (about a mile away) and get him a gift card.
I bought the gift card but when I got back to Walmart he was gone. I drove around looking for him but didn't see him.
About a week later, in another shopping area, I saw a man in a wheelchair. He was in the parking lot asking for money so he could buy some food. I reached into my car and gave him the McDonalds gift card.
It made him so happy that I decided to always carry a gift card to give to others I might meet who are in need.
8441 Reads
- Posted by Suzesunshine
- Apr 3, 2012
- Comments (22)
Readers Comments
viswateja wrote: I like the way u helped. Appreciate it
Judith wrote: This is like the answer to a prayer. I've been searching for an idea that i felt good about to respond to homeless folks who occupy traffic islands and approach cars waiting at lights. I don't usually have cash at hand, and i've felt uncomfortable before, between a rock and a hard place, unsure what would be the best thing to do. The gift cards are easy to keep on hand for just such occasions. And they are a way of knowing that i am providing something that i believe in, rather than something that might actually compound the extant problem.
sandra wrote: Thou shalt not steal. But that is exactly what i'm going to do with your idea - what a wonderful way to be able to share with someone in need. A food gift card, from any food place or grocery store is an excellent alternative to giving cash which, unfortunately, might be used for other than basic survival needs. No, i don't consider it stealing - just sharing your good deed, and thank you for telling us this tip.
doris kinyua wrote: Smart act u did. It s always good to give agift card to them wh are in need. Thanx for remindin us of generosity. Amen
Storme wrote: It's a shame the young man wasn't there anymore when you came back, but it's great you had something to give to the other guy, that was a wonderful idea and very generous of you. Thanks for sharing this! :)
thaata wrote: Exchanging money leave one at the same stage whereas exchanging ideas leaves one richer. Thanks for sharing your idea and making kindness acts richer.
bookworm58 wrote: That is a great idea to have gift cards to give to people.
Synergy wrote: What a beautiful idea! Thanks very much for sharing your experience, for your kindness and the inspiration. Blessings and smiles to you!
Maureen wrote: Thank you so much for this idea. I carry some one dollar bills in my car to give out, but i hadn't thought about a mcdonalds gift card!
Joy wrote: How kind of you and thoughtful. What a great idea. Many blessings to you.
