Care Packages

I posted about our Homeless Care Packages some time ago, but I wanted to post again.  This is an ongoing activity that we do as a family to serve others.  These simple gifts are for those that we see at the off-ramps, in a parking lot, or around town.  You know, the ones where you either try to pretend you don't see them, or you feel guilty because you don't hand anything out the window, or you wonder if the $$ you just gave are really going towards "gas" or "food".  We keep a couple of bags under the front seats in each of our vehicles so that they are easy to grab quickly. 

To put the packages together, we make a trip to the dollar store or W-mart and stock up things such as granola bars, toothbrushes, and water.  Depending on the season, we might throw in hand warmers, chap stick, or cough drops.  We also like to put in McD's certificates so that they can grab a burger and sit inside for a bit.  The girls also write notes to put in each bag that might say, "God Bless You" or "Do Unto Others....." from the Wolfes.  It's a group effort to put the bags together.  We usually make ten or so at a time.

 
Our care packages are always given out unexpectedly, but it's always exciting to hand one out with a smile.  As we drive away, we pray for the individual that we gave it to.  While these are gifts for the benefit of others, it is also my hope as a parent to instill in our kids the importance of small acts of kindness and compassion for those in need.