There was a young man standing outside Fresh Co wearing pajama pants and a parka Sunday around 4:30-5:00. I have spotted you and understand your angst. You asked me for money for food. My first gut reaction was "no", but I took a 1/ 2 a second to look into your eyes. What I saw was a young man (18-19) down on his luck, who probably was struggling right now. I saw a neighbour's son / a relative in your eyes. You were someone's son. And I felt your pain. So I bought you some groceries and a gift card. You thanked me and left to get out of the cold.

I also spotted everyone else in the store shopping at that time. I understand that not all can help, but I didn't spend much to buy him some healthy groceries, and most of us can spare a little extra for someone in need. Please stop being so self-absorbed and start being human to strangers who need a hand up.

There are many more young men in this community like him and if you wish to help, please donate to the non-profits that help them, like Street Health Homeless Centre/ Unit 7 (519-977-9200) or Drouillard Place (519-253-1073).