Greetings, Miss Manners I work as a volunteer for an organization that helps the homeless. In addition to providing necessities like clothing, winter coats, shoes, baby formula, diapers, and personal hygiene kits, we also assist with transportation (including bus passes) and apartment hunting. We offer grocery delivery services along with starter kits that include kitchenware, towels, bed sheets, and other necessities once someone is housed. It’s all free.
Additionally, we have a free wall filled with random items that we have donated. Various gift cards are frequently included on this wall. Another volunteer once came up to me as I was distributing cards and asked if she might take one for herself since it was so lovely.
I was so taken aback that I was at a loss for words, so I just said that I assumed she could. She then helped herself to free stuff with it.
This mother, her husband, and their two sons traveled to France for 12 days. I’m aware that she’s financially secure because they took multiple trips abroad last year.
These days, every week she accompanies me to the free area and asks, “What goodies do you have today?” She has so far voiced her dissatisfaction with the offerings, but I worry that she may ultimately inquire again.
Is there anything you think I should say to deter her from stealing items intended to aid our homeless community?
Stories by
Judith Martin
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Miss Manners: Country introvert moves to the suburbs, would rather not talk with neighbors
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Miss Manners: Grandma instructs teens to grab valuables from family s less-favored couple
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Miss Manners: Widow is told someone was miffed they didn t get a thank you card after attending wake
GENTLE READER: It is not fair to accuse this individual of stealing from the homeless, which is probably what Miss Manners is relying on.
However, you may imply that there was a misunderstanding by saying, “I apologize; I should have been more explicit when you requested that card.” These things are intended for the poor. We are not for them.
Miss Manners can be reached by email at [email protected], via her website at www.missmanners.com, or by mail at Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
