Vending Machines for Homeless
When I first moved to NYC, I gave money to every poor/ homeless looking person who would share with me their story of distress. I have since become more selective in my Philanthropic endeavors (aka giving spare change to the homeless). Though I’ve understood what stops so many, including myself, is the uncertainty of where a contribution is ultimately going… hopefully to food, water and not booze or drugs.
The idea: Vending Machines open to the public, to purchase food and drinks, but with a spin. Any loose change or dollar bills you have can be deposited into the machine to help other, less fortunate people make similar purchases for free or with the remaining balance. The Machine could identify this group via a simple swipe card distributed in convenient locations i.e. soup kitchens. Each card might allow a maximum amount to be purchased from donated funds/ day.
I like this because it is scalable, financially sustainable and puts positive power in the hands of the masses. My favorite part, since the machine vends food and drink to all, there is no feeling of embarrassment to those using the machine for its subsidizing benefits.
For you vending machine junkies, previous notable posts on the topic can be found here, here, here and here.
Update: I just found a similar idea blogged about on Sparkbugg, great stuff!
Categories: Fresh Ideas, blog
