A couple years ago I had an opportunity to hear an incredible woman speak about folks experiencing homelessness in the Twin Cities. She talked about breaking stereotypes, her life working in a shelter, and made us question everything we thought about the homeless. It was really interesting to hear everyone’s thoughts and views in our group. Some kept cash or non-perishable food in their car specifically to give to people asking for help on the side of the road. Others shared that they were told not to give strangers money and felt conflicted when they saw people panhandling. One younger gal shared that she was told by her father to check the person’s shoes. If their shoes looked fancy or a good brand than she shouldn’t give that person money.... This incredibly kind woman listened to everyone without judgement but opened up everyone’s minds. She had many powerful stories to share but I think the biggest thing she said that really stuck with me is that there are no “homeless people”. There are only people experiencing homelessness. I was thinking about that talk a couple days ago and decided to repurpose one of my yarnbombs for a better cause. This pretty pink blanket & pillow are from a bench yarnbomb I created for the @rosedalecenter #rosedaleyarnbomb. Both pillow and blanket were in great condition after I took down the installation so instead of zip tying them to the bench like I normally would when yarnbombing, I’ve left them exactly as they are. There’s a large population of people experiencing homelessness in St. Paul and my hope is that someone in need will find the blanket & pillow and be able to use them. 💗 I’ve decided I’m going to start leaving more blankets around the city on benches. If you have any extra warm blankets or pillows, please think of donating them to a shelter or leaving them on a bench for someone in need, they will be greatly appreciated. ❤️ A reminder that @thespreadsunshinegang are doing fantastic random acts of kindness year round! If you’d like to do some good with some amazing people, definitely check them out.☀️ #raok #repurpose #stpaulmn #guerrillakindness #guerrillaknitting #randomactsofkindness #bethechangeyouwish (at Saint Paul, Minnesota)
