Especially if you’re in Santa Fe. The homelessness is just off the charts ridiculous. It’s hit me in the heart hard today. I am reverting back to my 80’s NYC habit of buying a meal, or at least a drink and a couple of protein bars for the homeless I run into at stores, offices, streets.

Never offer money. Just food. Money gets used for alcohol, drugs, etc. Give them something better and more meaningful.

Had a good talk with a homeless person this afternoon, half their teeth gone, dirty, hopeless. Sat down on the sidewalk with them, served them some decent food, my dress clothes on. I just couldn’t bear walking by. A sweet soul, I cannot tell how honest they were being, but their story touched me deeply. The fact I made the time, sitting on the filthy sidewalk with them, brought tears to their eyes. I made that connection, and we’re both the better for it. In all my years doing this in NYC, during that terrible deadly winter after they dumped the mentally ill on the streets, I’ve never been injured. I would still caution women, however - be sure you’re in a safe space before doing it. Or just do a quick dropoff.

Do this, and I guarantee you blessings on your day. Thank you, from my heart.

Later: I received some pretty ugly emails about this. I want to state something clearly: I do not take photos to ‘prove’ my actions when it involves disadvantaged people. Even if they give permission, I use my own disgression. Unless I can benefit them in some truly meaningful way (get them a job, etc.), I am not going to post photos. Insult, accuse me all you like.