One small thing you can do right now? Buy someone a coffee.
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One of the core beliefs of my work is believing that you can have a happy life while also sharing resources with your community. Mutual aid is an "and" situation, not an "or." I've written a lot about how shared meals are one of the most direct paths toward building community bonds, and I love when businesses exemplify how you can help someone out while also enjoying yourself.
A few weeks ago I visited The Underbite Bites bakery in Queen Village to talk about how their cafe has become a community hub. From neighborhood flyers to books to comfy couches to photos of local dogs, everyone is represented in the space. But I was even more inspired by the bakery's pay-it-forward program, in which visitors can buy a coffee and pastry, or coffee and sandwich, for someone who can't afford their own.
Rather than charity, this is an act of mutual aid. While coming in for one of its infamous vegan pop tarts, you can throw in a few extra dollars and make sure that someone's bad day instantly gets better with a free meal. No one needs to prove they are in need, and anyone can take a pay-it-forward tag off the wall and submit it at the register.
It could be someone experiencing homelessness, or someone who just lost their job, or even someone who just really needs a pick-me-up. This is how we take care of each other.
Watch my interview with Rae Krueger below and stop in to The Underbite Bites at 806 S 6th Street in Philly.
Other ways to get involved right now:
The Sunday Love Project is looking for hygiene items.
Ludwig has been looking for a home for 400 days. Why not take him for a walk?
Mutual aid groups are crowdfunding for high-need hot weather supplies.
The Roads and Kingdoms Anti-ICE Supper Club is coming to Honeysuckle and Post Haste next month, to benefit Juntos.
Free jazz concerts are coming to Philly parks, and shared musical experiences are a great way to meet your neighbors.
This free community garden could use some kids supplies and they have a wishlist.