#2$BILL Project

I have long struggled with what to do sitting in my car at a red light or an exit ramp with a person in need outside the window yearning for eye contact and, of course, money or some other kindness. It's one of the most uncomfortable feelings I experience as a human being. Living in a country as wealthy as ours and being confronted by people struggling in such basic ways is uncomfortable--really it's more intense than uncomfortable. I can't think of a precise word to describe it—just that it feels awful. It’s a moral failure of our country, and feeling powerless to change anything feels worse.

A couple years ago, I began keeping $2 bills in my car and stopping whenever I can to give one out. I always try to make eye contact, to ask the person their name and to tell them mine. We all want to be seen.

I know there are those that don’t believe in giving money to the homeless for fear that it will enable them to buy alcohol or drugs. I have thought about this a lot and what I have decided personally is that when there is someone in need, I want to help. What the person chooses to do with the money after it leaves my hand is their choice. I am not the judge and jury of anyone. Maybe they will use the money to buy cigarettes or drugs or alcohol, or maybe they’ll use the money for food or to pay for a good night’s sleep in a shelter - I don’t know. What I do know is that it helps me feel less powerless and maybe the small act of kindness will have some sort of positive impact.

Maybe you want to go to your bank and ask for a stack of $2 bills. The teller will first look at you like you're crazy and then get curious. I keep mine handy in the driver's door of my car.

In community, Paige

Reach out to us at hello@therecollab.com or call +1 651-412-3765. We are here to make your home purchase or sale a transparent and successful experience.

REC. Real Estate. Radically Reimagined.