Keep NYC Homeless Warm this Winter

In winter 2[phone redacted] we want to create winter care packages to help keep those less fortunate warm in NYC. Each package will include a winter jacket, a hoodie, a top & bottom thermal set, a hat, a scarf, gloves, socks, an information guide where to find help, small amenities, and supportive cards made by students at a local elementary school in the Bronx.

As I took my younger cousin to the theater on 86th St & Lex Ave in New York City I ran into an under-dressed homeless man in his mid-30's. He wore a light summer running jacket, torn jeans and a t-shirt. It was 15 °F and he was crying, shivering and had a hard time catching his breath. After talking to him, I felt how scared and hopeless he was. I decided I wouldn't leave his side.

Next to us stood a street merchant where we bought him a sweater, a hat, gloves and a scarf. The joy on his face was instant yet I still sensed anguish. Behind us was a health foods store so we bought a bottle of Men's Multi Vitamins. On the way out, I wanted to buy him dinner but ran out of cash. As we crossed the street to the nearest ATM I saw him limping. I asked what was wrong, he pleaded his boots were small causing blisters. As I pulled money out, it was then that I realized dinner would not be enough. We walked to Modell's and got him a pair of new boots. Looking around I picked out a winter jacket, a pair of jeans, a top & bottom thermal set, a large package of socks and two basketballs carry bags.

The man continued to cry and was very thankful. Leaving Modell's we crossed the street to Rite Aid; I wanted to make sure he would be clean. We bought a large container of shaving cream, a bag of razors, a large container of q tips, 2 large deodorant sticks, a bottle of lotion, 2 bars of soap, 2 towels (one large one small), a large umbrella, a raincoat, baby wipes, a notebook, a pack of pens, 1 large marker, a document holder, nail clipper, a comb, first aid kit, 2 toothbrushes, 2 tubes of toothpaste, 1 medium sized mouthwash, 6 hand warmers and some snacks.

We spent the next 15 minutes organizing everything in the two bags we bought earlier. I gave him some money for dinner, talked some more, gave each other a hug and parted ways.

When I looked into the crying man’s eyes I saw a glimpse of my biological brother’s eyes as a child and I became overpowered with emotion. I felt like I couldn’t do enough for that man that day. That is why I have created this campaign; so we can help out several more in his exact situation as well as others in need.

Warmest Regards,

AB