Credit: AP Photo/Hillary Rhodes
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While a lot of my energy is devoted to environmental and green issues, a big part of my heart is involved in humanitarian causes, like hunger and homelessness. I'm an easy touch when I have cash in my pocket, because I know how it is to be in need. However, giving cash isn't always the best option, whereas people always need to eat.
A man named Jory John, a children's author in San Francisco, conceived of a simple plan to help alleviate hunger, even if it's on a small scale. It's called the Peanut Butter Plan, and it works like this:
"The first of every month is peanut butter & jelly day. Put that on your calendar. If the first doesn't work, pick a day that does. You're welcome to have more than one peanut butter & jelly day per month. Just not fewer than one. That's what you're agreeing to, by joining this group: that you, personally, will take a half hour per month and pass out some sandwiches to some hungry people."
Buy as much bread and peanut butter and jelly (or honey) as you can afford to, make up as many sandwiches as possible from your supplies, and go somewhere where people are hungry. Pass out all of your sandwiches to those in need. Repeat monthly. (The Peanut Butter Plan isn't solely for the homeless - it's for anyone who's hungry)
One advocate for the homeless says there are better ways to help them, and perhaps he's got a point, but in my mind, doing something is better than doing nothing. It doesn't have to be PB&J, either. Donate to the food bank once a month. Volunteer at a shelter or soup kitchen. Pass out free laundry vouchers or bus passes.
The point is, do what you can, share what you have, and help to make the world a friendlier place for those who are suffering.
What other ideas do you have for people who wish to help?
(hat tip to ItStartsWithUs)
Planet Green Video: Freeganism
More about Do Gooding:
How to Go Green: Volunteerism
Do-Gooding
Adopt a Highway
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