The scorching summer heat inspired an agreement between Luling’s Molly Gubert and her friend Suri Thomas – and ultimately inspired them to make a difference.
“We were talking about how horrible the heat was and how tough it would be to be outside all day,” Gubert said. “And that led to us discussing how horrible it has to be for people who are homeless. They’re dealing with their everyday struggles on top of the wretched heat, and that made both of us think about how much we truly take for granted.
“We both had very good upbringings and were fortunate enough to never have to worry about where our food would come from or where we would stay for the night.”
They decided to find a way to help. The two reached out through social media and began raising money to put together “summer survival kits” of necessities and comfort, including food, water, brushes, socks, hand wipes and more.
“I set up a GoFundMe and sent it to practically everyone I know, on every social media platform,” Gubert said. “I wrote about the things we take for granted, like having a house to go to or being able to go to school, and I think it really touched people.”
The two were floored at how quickly the response came. They set a goal of raising $750, and within four days that goal was met.
“Within the first hour we had already reached $100, which shocked me,” Gubert said. “It was honestly astounding how quickly people responded and just how many people donated.”
That propelled them into action. Gubert and Thomas purchased bulk supplies of items for the kits. Then they went to New Orleans for several days and handed the kits out to anyone who needed them. They also donated kits to local shelters and charities.
The two took time to speak to recipients as well and hear their stories.
“One bad situation can change your life,” Gubert said. “We really connected with two people in particular and we talked with them for over an hour.”
Upon hearing some of the other items the people were missing and in need of, Gubert and Thomas visited a nearby CVS and purchased as many of those things as they could.
“The faces on just those two people when we came back really made the entire project worth it,” Gubert said.
She said it has inspired them to continue doing this, with a follow up project planned for the holidays.
“It hurts my heart for those who are on the street suffering in this heat and humidity,” Gubert said. “Kindness is free, and any good deed is worth it.”
