Knowledge of tax preparation to help someone do their taxes. Writing abilities to help someone craft a good resume. Knowledge of a subject to help someone prepare for a test. Knowledge of home repairs to help someone fix something in their home. Knowledge of video games and streaming platforms to help fundraise for charity[1] X Research source
For example, if you usually have enough money left over from your basic expenses to save $200. 00, then you might consider using this money to help someone buy groceries or pay their heating bill for one month. Don’t worry if you do not have much money to help someone with. Even a small amount, such as $5. 00 may be a huge help to someone. However, there are other ways to help if you can’t give money at all.
A spare room in your home. Extra clothes and shoes that you can loan or donate to someone. A vehicle that you don’t use anymore A lawnmower to help someone care for his or her lawn.
Spending some of your spare time with someone who is lonely, such as an elderly friend or relative who is living alone or in a nursing home. Offering to run errands for someone who is housebound. Providing free child care to a single mother who cannot afford a babysitter.
Some people may feel uncomfortable if you make a big deal of helping them financially. Try to be subtle about offering financial help. For example, if you notice that a friend is struggling to afford her basic needs each month, such as food, rent, and utilities, then you might try inviting her to dinner once per week and send her home with some leftovers. You can say something like, “I will never be able to eat all of this extra food! Can you please take some home with you?” Be direct and considerate if you want to give someone money. If you want to offer money to someone, then you might say something like, “I have noticed that you are struggling. I care about you and I want to help. Will you please let me give you some money to help with your groceries this month?”
For example, if you have a friend who seems depressed, then you might offer to help by saying something like, “I have noticed that you seem a little down lately. Do you want to talk about it? I am always here for you if you need me. ”[4] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source
For example, if a friend calls you and asks if you can talk, then take some time to meet up with her and find out what is going on. [5] X Research source If a homeless person asks if you can spare a dollar, give the person a dollar if you can.
That said, you should not talk over them and relate one of your own “similar” experiences; this will come across as insensitive or even sound like you are boasting or placing your emotional needs above theirs. [6] X Research source
Don’t brush them off or say that you don’t have time to hear what they have to say. Often acknowledging people’s pain and sadness is worth more than all the advice and guidance you might have in store.
“Can I help by driving you to the grocery store or other errands?” “Would it be helpful if I went to doctor appointments with you?”
Send them a card or an email reminding them they’re on your mind. Come straight out and say something like, “You’re an important part of my life. ”
Focus on how you can help the person rather than trying to solve their problems for them. For example, if the person has lost his home and job, then you can help the person with a job search, but do not do the job search work for him. Sit down with him and help him with the search, application process, deciding what to wear for an interview, etc. Do not try to replace a medical or mental health professional. For example, if the person has schizophrenia, then do not try to manage the person’s condition without medical assistance.
When this person is angry, let them cry or vent, rather than trying to improve their emotions or make them feel happy. If this person feels like their situation is hopeless, assure them that they will pull through regardless of how tough things seem right now. Try saying something like, “I know things might seem bad right now, but this is only a temporary setback. Things will get better. ”
Smile or hold the door open for someone. Say something optimistic to a person who seems down.
If you see someone in a crowded location who is struggling to carry their bags or possessions, offer to help them carry something. If you see someone walking in adverse weather conditions, stop your car and offer to give them a lift (if you feel safe doing so). If you see someone upset or crying in public, ask them, “Is everything alright?” and offer them a tissue. Always treat people with courtesy, and don’t presume that they will want your help. If you offer your assistance and someone declines, do not press the issue.
Talk to your co-workers and compliment them when they do a job well. Once a week, buy groceries for someone who needs the financial help, like a student or single parent.
