On occassion we assemble carepacks for the homeless around the Bay Area. We include items of necessity as well as information on helpful resources for individuals afflicted with substance abuse or how to find work. Please contact us if you are interested in making your own carepack and would like us to distribute it for you or if you would also like to participate with us in the distribution. We like to use backpacks from the thrift store to contain the items. Some items to include if you're making your own:

- New bottled water

- Organic food bars/applesauce

- Canned vienna sausages, cheese and crackers, etc.

- Anti-bacterial wipes

- Maxi pads for some homeless women

- New pair of socks

- Couple cans of dog food for their homeless pets too

- Pamphlets on substance abuse (where to go for help)

- Scarves, knitted hats, and gloves during the winter

LOVE TO HELP? Send us an e-mail: info@metta-effect.org

One advantage of not being famous or extremely wealthy is that you can come into direct contact with the poor or neglected, and have a deeper experience of their existence. We received hugs from one homeless man missing an arm and it was a wonderful feeling to experience his charming personality. People are definitely more than what meets the eye...sometimes in a good way, and other times not. In any case, the greatest poverty is not about food, it's about not being loved. This is a problem in the most affluent countries--the soul feels alone and misunderstood all too often.