Lately, I’ve been feeling a pull to do something simple yet meaningful for people in my community who don’t have a place to call home. Times are hard for everyone right now, and most Americans are only one paycheck away from finding themselves in a situation they never imagined. It’s humbling to think about how quickly life circumstances can change, and how easily it could be any of us.
That’s why, in honor of my birthday today, I put together twelve care packages to give to people I encounter who are experiencing homelessness. They’re filled with basics like snacks, toiletries, a few articles of clothing, and water, but more than anything, I hope they carry a little bit of dignity and humanity. Because homeless people are still people. Oftentimes it is circumstances and not character that lead people to these places in life.
A History of Giving
When I lived and worked in New York City, I made it a point to help however I could. At that time, when my financial situation was different, I routinely spent around $100 each month on gift cards that I’d hand out to the homeless people I met along my route. It was a small gesture, but one that allowed me to give in a consistent way. My financial reality has changed dramatically since then, and I’m no longer able to give consistently at that level, but I still believe in doing what I can, whenever and however I can. These care packages are my way of continuing that commitment. My family and I found ourselves in a very precarious financial position recently and have only just been able to get ourselves back on track, so this is my way of showing thanks for the grace we ourselves received during that dark time.
Autism and Compassion
As an autistic person, I think a lot about fairness, justice, and compassion. Research has shown that autistic people are often just as altruistic as anyone else, sometimes even more so. Many of us are guided by deeply held values rather than social expectations, and for me, that rings true. When I see someone suffering, it doesn’t feel like an abstract idea: it’s immediate, it’s real, and it calls me to action.
This isn’t about being a savior or doing something “big” for attention or clout. It’s about doing what I can, where I am, with what I have. It’s about remembering that kindness and generosity matter, especially in times like these, when the world feels heavy, dark, and hopeless.
How You Can Help
So if you ever wonder whether small acts make a difference, I want you to know they do. Even something as simple as handing someone a care package, making eye contact (though it may be hard), and saying, “I see you, and you matter” can ripple farther than we realize.
If you share my vision and my mission, and you feel so inclined, please consider purchasing items from my Amazon Wishlist. They are all items that go directly to assembling care kits like the one above.
Let me know your thoughts