Pizza owner noticed increased number of people eating from the trash—the response is surreal
Many people struggle to make ends meet. Many facing homelessness or those who are unable to afford meals often resort to eating from the trash. It is a cruel reality that no one should have to face and a little humanity can change that in unimaginable ways. Chris Kolstad, owner of Pizza Man in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, was disheartened to notice an increasing number of people eating out of the trash, as reported by TODAY. Moved by their struggle, he decided to do something in return as his way of helping out. It made a massive difference and left many inspired.
Kolstad recalled noticing signs of people eating out of the trash for a long time. However, it has increased recently. He specifically recounted how there would be empty pizza boxes, napkins and empty water bottles around the dumpster area. The owner was sure it wasn’t animals after the sight. Furthermore, one day, he received information about a woman eating garlic bread from the trash. After noticing the problem, he decided to voice it publicly. "[We] have seen people eating out of our dumpsters and I don't know how else to phrase it, we don't want someone to have to live that way," he remarked, per CBS News.
He made a humble request to his customers in a now-deleted Facebook post, along with a heartfelt message to those struggling. He wrote, “Please do not eat out of our dumpster. Nobody deserves that.” He added that there is always something they can figure out for those who need food. “You’re sitting outside, you got nothing to eat and somebody’s willing to hand you something hot and fresh as opposed to straight out of the trash? I imagine that makes a pretty big difference in your day,” he thoughtfully noted. The restaurant owner went one step ahead and assured those in need that they don’t have to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.
“If you are too embarrassed to ask, find a way to call us and ask if there is a way to leave a small cheese pizza outside the back door or something. You don't even have to see us. If you are the ones doing so, leave me a note and we will find a way to leave any extras or mistakes out back so you have something to eat without going through the trash,” he generously wrote. His mindset was simple — to reach out and help because he had the resources. “We're sitting in a building full of food 24/7; it's hard to watch somebody eat out of your garbage can,” he explained.
The pizza owner put into action all he planned and left a box of fresh pizza outside his restaurant. He even shared a glimpse of the same. Seeing his act of kindness, many businesses and customers were inspired to help. Many supported with offers to help, while others donated generously. In a comment, Kolstad revealed that the funds have helped arrange food to donate to organizations in need. Right enough, his work made a precious difference. One of the people wrote Kolstad a letter in gratitude. It revealed, “We are a big family and going through a hard time.” After coming across Kolstad’s offer, they showed up at the spot and were moved to see a pizza waiting for them. “What you guys are doing is amazing, thank you!” the letter concluded.