Blankets & Food for the Homeless
This morning, after dropping off my boyfriend at work, I decided to get a green tea at my favorite coffee shop in downtown Las Vegas. There, the prices are steep but goodness, the drinks are stellar.
I was delighted, thinking about the fortunate morning I was having, when, after parking my car, I noticed an individual sleeping in the parking lot.
He was wrapped in a thin sheet, in an attempt to warm himself on the cold concrete. Undoubtedly, he was freezing.
Thoughts of the morning drink went out of my head.
Frantically, I searched around for something to give him — anything. Fortunately, I had an extra-big hoodie and a blanket in my car, as well as some cash. I cautiously approached the ma and laid the minimal gifts beside him, the $10 tucked into the folds of the blanket.
Walking away, I didn’t feel accomplished. Rather, I felt numb.
Why is this?
Because NO ONE should have to endure what he — and hundreds of other people in Las Vegas, and thousands nation-wide — do every single night. In the “land of abundance,” why are there more than 560,000 people sleeping on the streets — in frigid, December weather, nonetheless?
The answer is simple (at least, in my mind): an unfair distribution of wealth, exacerbated by greed, has resulted in present-day conundrums, such as homelessness, which could easily be remedied.
Because (politically-speaking) we are a long way from remedying this, it is best if we, the people, band together and "be the change" we want to see. However cliche this phrase might be, it is true.
How Your Donation Will Be Used
The goal for this campaign is $500. That’s simple enough to meet, right?
ALL of the funds will be used to purchase insulated blankets via Amazon (cheapest price, fast delivery) and to purchase ingredients to make basic, nutritious sandwiches. (I’m a holistic nutritionist, so will source healthy, economical components).
As soon as the goal is met, these items will be purchased. Hopefully, before Christmas, we’ll be able to deliver the sandwiches and blankets to the dozens of homeless people who hang out near downtown Las Vegas.
Homeless Does Not Mean 'Less Than'
Those who are homeless were once your neighbors, colleagues, and friends. They deserve the same respect as you and me. Hard times have just befallen them, which is why we need to act -- now.
Please consider donating just $5 to $10 if you can. I know the holidays cause many people's bank accounts to dwindle. However, remember, the "reason for the season" is giving. This is a great way to lead by example.
Many blessings,
Amanda Froelich
Bloom for Life