Resources to help those experiencing difficult times

Affordable food, clean clothes, money, and a roof over your head are ubiquitous privileges that not everyone has. However, you don’t need Jeff Bezos’ wealth to support those in need. In fact, you hardly need money at all. Whether you empathize with those in need, or find yourself struggling during hard times, here are three ways to help others or find help for yourself.

Charities and Nonprofits:

Online, in parks, at school, there are opportunities to give to those in need practically everywhere. You have probably seen popular charities like the American Red Cross or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and you may think that giving to charities requires money, but that is not always the case! For instance, the American Red Cross requests blood donations and/or volunteers. You can, of course, give money, but if you don’t have it, giving your time is also a supportive gesture.

You can find local charities and nonprofits anywhere. Here are three I found in Boston: 

1. Cradles to Crayons: A non-profit organization that provides free clothes and other basic needs such as shoes, diapers, coats, and backpacks with school supplies to children who are unhoused or living in low-income situations.

2. Rosie’s Place: A non-profit organization dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for women, sheltering them, providing meals, legal assistance, housing assistance, and so much more.

3. Boston Cares: The largest volunteer agency in New England.

Food Pantries:

When you’re running low on supplies and need to find food, food pantries got you. These can be found in local stores, churches, and other designated areas.

Lots of stores, such as Starbucks and Dunkin’, provide free water. Never be afraid to go inside and ask for a cup!

Personal Things You Can Do: You don’t need to rely on organizations to help others.

1. Donating unused/old clothes: Have a sibling who doesn’t fit their clothes anymore? There are people who do. Similar to Cradles to Crayons which I mentioned above, you can donate your old or unused clothes to local charities, or within your community 
2. Giving leftovers: If you’re eating out but can’t eat all of your meal, consider giving what you cannot eat to someone who needs it more.
3. Buying something for people outside of stores: Help the guy outside the 7-Eleven asking for something to eat.
4. Don’t be scared: People in need won’t bite!
5. Volunteering at a homeless shelter.