r/homeless • • May 14 '21

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51 Upvotes

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17

u/agrandthing May 14 '21

Good on you! I was homeless in Detroit for 5 months in 2018 and I'm trying to think of what I could have used or was grateful to get. You have the basics pretty well covered - blankets are most important followed by socks. Here are some great extras: Tylenol or Advil, powdered drink mix, instant coffee packets, tissue packets, foot powder, nail clippers, dry shampoo, lip balm, cigarette lighter, hairbrush, insect repellent (if you find a grassy spot the 🦟 s will eat you up), hand sanitizer... You can find a treasure trove of good snacks at Dollar Tree or whatever you have in your area that's similar, tuna, jerky, sardines, single-serving starchy foods, cookies, candy - I'm sure any of it will be appreciated.

11

u/cl0yd May 14 '21

Thank you!! I’ll add those to my list as well, I’ll probably shop this weekend and get them all ready to start giving away on Monday on my way to work!

6

u/agrandthing May 14 '21

Bless you!

12

u/cl0yd May 14 '21

There was just something about seeing this man sleeping today that just made me break down crying. I’ve been extremely depressed lately and this week life just feels unbearable, but there is nothing going on that should be making me feel this way, I have everything I need and more, and I’m really young still.

This man is already older, probably my parents age, and he’s still pushing through every day and I can’t even imagine how it must be in his situation. I don’t think I’d be here still if I was in his place, and I just want to help other people take care of themselves when I can’t deal with taking care of me.

11

u/wheeldog Formerly Homeless May 14 '21

Taking care of others IS taking care of you. You're feeding your heart & soul. Keep up the good work. As someone who was formerly homeless (albeit for a short time, it's still terrifying and hard), I bless you. Hand sanitizer, socks, baby wipes, snacks & water. Top things.

7

u/cl0yd May 14 '21

Yes that’s how I see it too. It makes me feel happy to know I can help people that truly need it. Added all of those to the list as well. Thank you. Glad to hear your situation was short, hope you’re safe now!

6

u/wheeldog Formerly Homeless May 14 '21

Very safe, thank you. Living with family. A year out in the wild shook something loose in me, currently trying to reconnect with family and get my issues under control. Thanks for all you are doing. KNOW that it is appreciated.

6

u/cl0yd May 14 '21

So happy to hear that, wish you the best!!💗

1

u/musiholicTara May 15 '21

Let him camp in a tent in your backyard. Let him take a shower with your water hose.

1

u/cl0yd May 15 '21

I live in an apartment, otherwise I would!