There are many things, people, and organizations that can bring out inspiration.  Sometimes an inspirational person can bring more attention to a cause or vice versa.  Sometimes a story can be inspirational.  A story told to me by my mother about a woman who makes sandwiches daily to give away to those in need, inspired me to research this kind of giving.

One of the organizations I discovered was P.B.J. Outreach, Inc. of Detroit, Michigan.  Deacon Tim Sullivan of Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish of Plymouth, Michigan had a few experiences in Boston, Massachusetts that led him to start P.B.J. Outreach in Detroit.  He remembered a particular gathering location of homeless individuals in Detroit and decided to start there when he returned to Michigan.

With support and donations he started to have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches given out by volunteers at this location in Detroit in 2002.  Feeding just over 30 people has grown to feeding between 250 and 350 people on Saturday mornings.  P.B.J. Outreach, Inc. is a non-profit that now feeds and provides clothing for poor and marginalized individuals in Detroit.

Many soup kitchens and organizations exist to help with the problems of hunger and homelessness, many individuals also reach out to those in need.  Whether people make extra baked goods for a local business or give canned goods to a fundraiser at their children’s school, these needed actions are reflections of living in generous and caring communities.  We all have to be aware of the negative, but can look for ways to solve problems and work in productive ways.  Be inspired!  Have a bright day!