Helping People in Need

Meet Judith Weiser, this week’s Ben’s Bells Project Bellee! Judy Jennings nominated Judith for giving to people in need.

It’s impossible to say how many lives my friend Judith has touched, without any desire for reward. She just goes out and recycles all the cans and bottles she can find, hunting for them as if she were stalking prey. She loads up her little red truck and heads to the recycling center, then puts the money in the ashtray and runs her errands, always watching, keeping an eye out for someone who looks like they could use a few bucks. She knows it’s risky but she won’t stop, counting on her gloves and mask to protect from the virus.

When she spots someone pushing a shopping cart filled with blankets and clothes, or sitting on a curb alongside the road, she stops her car and gets out to approach and ask if it would be okay if she gives them some money. She says she likes to talk to people at these times because it offers a human connection as well as cash. Almost no one refuses her request. She explains her motivation this way: “I’ve had so many opportunities that others haven’t. An education, a career, a good home, good friends, good dogs. I’m just immensely grateful.”

If you know someone who inspires kindness within the Greater Tucson, Phoenix, or Connecticut community, nominate them for a Ben’s Bell!