Working in a small non-profit day shelter for homeless men has taught me countless lessons. One lesson being that absolutely no donation is too small, but some definitely are priceless. This is the story of one small donation that made a big impact.
Last week, the shelter was hustling and bustling more so than usual, thanks to more men seeking shelter from the cooler temperatures and due to a shortage of staff. As I helped at the front desk, out of the corner of my eye, I spotted one of our regular guests, Christian, making his way over to one of my colleagues who was standing next to me. He greeted her and handed her something, instructing her to give it to our boss. My colleague smiled and thanked him, and as he walked back to his seat, she explained that Christian had donated $5 to be put toward the day shelter’s water bill. Apparently, he made the same donation the prior week.
I am not sure why he decided to donate money toward the water bill, but I am sure that this donation is invaluable. While $5 may not mean much to most people these days, it definitely means a great deal to those who are homeless. Even this small amount of money can prove to be a huge asset in the acquisition of and/or bartering for food, clothing, and other resources on the streets. So, the fact that Christian donated $5 toward the water bill on two separate occasions was extremely generous, in addition to being touching.
Christian gave all that he could with no hesitation, and there are no adequate words to convey our gratitude to him for this most kind gesture. In a culture of “what’s in it for me”, it was so heartwarming to witness someone who has so very little give so very much. Paying the water bill never felt quite as special as it does this month thanks to Christian.
Kristi Jo, this is a touching story. Even people in need would prefer to help others. This runs counter to a narrow mindset of a few that people in need are moochers, welfare queens, etc. While there is a minute percentage of people who use the system, the great majority are like this man. Thanks, BTG
Thank you so much for sharing your insights, as they are spot on! People who are homeless are often stereotyped as lazy people who live off the system, but I can attest that this is the furthest thing from the truth. They are living examples of the saying that it is better to give than to receive, and when I say that they are the finest gentlemen in all of Louisville, I truly mean it.
You are more than welcome, and thank you for sharing this wonderful observation! Some of the greatest acts of kindness that I have had the privilege to witness have occurred here at the day shelter, and our guests, by and large, are the most gracious and giving people ever.
Reblogged this on Think Before You Act and commented:
A wonderful model for us all. There is always someone out there who needs it more than you do. Often we forget ourselves in the thrills of life, but it is key to keep your mind focused on the wellness of others, as well as yourself. It is one thing to believe in helping others and preaching to help those in need, but we need to take it to the next and most important step and start to give yourself for the sake of others.
Thank you for sharing this post and your thoughtful words! It is easy to give when you have much, and Christian’s gesture was simply beautiful. He is a wonderful role model indeed.
Kindness Blog 
Reblogged this on That's Another Story.
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Reblogged this on Pursuit of Purpose Project.
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Many thanks for reblogging this, as it is appropriated!
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Kristi Jo, this is a touching story. Even people in need would prefer to help others. This runs counter to a narrow mindset of a few that people in need are moochers, welfare queens, etc. While there is a minute percentage of people who use the system, the great majority are like this man. Thanks, BTG
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Thank you so much for sharing your insights, as they are spot on! People who are homeless are often stereotyped as lazy people who live off the system, but I can attest that this is the furthest thing from the truth. They are living examples of the saying that it is better to give than to receive, and when I say that they are the finest gentlemen in all of Louisville, I truly mean it.
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Homeless does not equate to heartless!. Thanks for sharing this.
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You are more than welcome, and thank you for sharing this wonderful observation! Some of the greatest acts of kindness that I have had the privilege to witness have occurred here at the day shelter, and our guests, by and large, are the most gracious and giving people ever.
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Reblogged this on MrMilitantNegro™.
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Thanks so much for reblogging this story; we appreciate it greatly!
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That is wonderful. People who have a lot are stingy but the people who have less do give more freely. ❤
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Jackie, I am very happy that you liked this and appreciate the generosity of those who have the least, yet give the most.
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Reblogged this on Think Before You Act and commented:
A wonderful model for us all. There is always someone out there who needs it more than you do. Often we forget ourselves in the thrills of life, but it is key to keep your mind focused on the wellness of others, as well as yourself. It is one thing to believe in helping others and preaching to help those in need, but we need to take it to the next and most important step and start to give yourself for the sake of others.
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Thank you for sharing this post and your thoughtful words! It is easy to give when you have much, and Christian’s gesture was simply beautiful. He is a wonderful role model indeed.
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Thank you so much for sharing Christian’s story, as it means a great deal to me!
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