This past weekend, I was walking through Hoboken on my way to a local grocery store. As I approached the store, a homeless man asked if I could spare any change. I said “No, but I would be happy to buy you food”, and he politely declined. I didn’t think much of it and went about shopping in the store. As I was leaving he asked “Is that offer still good? There is a burger place down the street”.
I walked with him to the burger place (Johnny Rockets) and told him to order anything he wanted. He ordered, a burger, fries, and a milkshake. He was extremely grateful and thanked me many times.
Most people, including myself, are hesitant to hand homeless men or women money. That doesn’t mean you can’t help. Next time a homeless man or woman asks for money, instead of just ignoring them, offer to buy them a meal.