In 2011, Kenneth Prabhakar and his brother Kevin, who were only 9 and 13 years old, saw the impacts of homelessness during a school trip. They immediately formed Next Supper, dedicated to helping homeless community members. Every year, all year, they collect empty bottles and cans, bring them to the recycling center, and save the funds. Near the holidays, during the cold and wet season, they pool this money to buy brand new clothing for people experiencing homelessness.
In 2014, the Prabhakar family partnered with BACS and donated these items for us to distribute. Today, Kevin is in college, and Kenneth has kept up the initiative. Through his church community, family connections, extended social networks, and supporters of Next Supper, Kenneth raised more than ever – nearly $3,000!
Many of our participants have not had new clothing since they became homeless, and often experience the winter unprepared. This year Kenneth purchased jackets, gloves, socks, warm pants. Furthermore, Kenneth made an inspiring personal sacrifice, donating money he earned from tutoring, to get 25 fleece blankets! His parents, Joseph and Padmini, matched his donation.
