Kindness Bags

This tradition started around Christmas time with my daughters. I will be the first to admit that I get a little carried away at Christmas. The music, the magic, the festiveness, I love it all. Each weekend is packed with some holiday activity. However, it’s really important to us as parents that the Christmas season isn’t all about “me me me” for our kids.

During Christmas, we do the Kindness Elves. They are similar to the Elf on the Shelf. However, our Elves recommend ways to spread kindness. Last year, our Kindness Elves suggested doing something for homeless people. It was one of my favorite projects to do with our Big Nugget. San Diego County has a lot of homeless people, and it seems like there is someone in need at every light or every parking lot.

Kindness Bags

We went to Target’s Dollar Spot and travel section to get some essential items for our kindness bags for homeless people. We’ve also gone to the Dollar Store and have found some deals on Amazon that you could order and have the next day. Set a budget per bag and fill them accordingly. Sure, we could easily roll the window down and hand them some money, and occasionally I do, but these kindness bags provide something practical. It also provides an element of compassion that many on the street don’t get. I want my girls to see all people as human and worthy of empathy.

What to put in a blessing bag:

• Wet wipes
• Toothbrush
• Socks
• Mittens (even in San Diego, it gets chilly at night)
• Kleenex,
• Chapstick
• Sunscreen
• Bandaids

• Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, fruit cups)
• A water bottle
• Socks and gloves
• Travel-size hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap)
• A small notebook and pen
• A list of local shelters and food banks
• Basic first-aid supplies

We use gallon Ziploc bags and fill them with small items that a homeless person might need. Even as we were assembling them, Big Nugget wanted a pair of gloves for herself and a granola bar. It was a great teaching moment and allowed me to explain again that other people needed these items more than she did at the time.

We put the kindness bags into my car and keep them until we see someone on the street corner or at a stoplight. It’s an easy way to provide some practical help. Most importantly, we teach her compassion for others and that giving is as fun as receiving. This Christmas season isn’t about just Santa lists and Christmas lights but spreading hope and love through acts of kindness.