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Woman distributes care packages to homeless people

Posted at 4:42 AM, Oct 31, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-16 14:50:50-05

At 76 years young, this Bakersfield woman has one goal. She wants to make everyone feel loved.

For the past five years, Shirley Daubert, or Grandma Shirley, has been passing out ‘love bags’ to homeless people. On average, she gives out 100 per month.

“They’re made with love,” Grandma Shirley said.

These care packages are full of everyday items, including socks, toothpaste and toothbrushes, deodorant, wash cloths, and more. She also hands out $5 McDonald’s gift cards.

“This is in my trunk every day of my life. No matter where I am, if I see a homeless person, I turn around and help them,” Grandma Shirley said.

Shirley’s daughter, Stefanie, says homeless people are often misunderstood. She says anyone could end up in the same position.

“It can happen to anybody, I’ve gone through circumstances where I could be in the same place that they have been. The only difference is I have a supportive family like my mom,” Stefanie said.

When handing out these ‘love bags,’ Grandma Shirley asks two things – “What’s your name?” and “Can I pray for you?”

“When I give someone a bag, I’m telling them ‘I love you and that I care about you and that you’re important to me.’ And that’s when I pray with them,” Grandma Shirley said. “You don’t know what you might say or do to encourage someone to get better.”

If you or someone you know has done something kind for others, let us know by visiting https://www.turnto23.com/hello-humankindness.

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