Have you ever been the recipient of an act of kindness? Perhaps you didn't have enough change to pay for your coffee, and the person behind you covered the cost. I was stuck in the snow in my driveway a couple of years ago, and an ambulance crew got out of their vehicle and helped me get unstuck!

What if one day could spark a ripple of kindness that keeps on going? That’s the heart behind Princeton’s Day of Kindness, happening Saturday, August 2nd. It's a day when local churches, businesses, and community members come together to share love, generosity, and a whole lot of free stuff with anyone who could use a little extra help.

From free meals and ice cream treats to school supplies and toiletries, this day is packed with simple, thoughtful gestures aimed at lifting others up. It’s also a gentle reminder that kindness doesn’t have to cost a thing. A smile, a helping hand, or a warm meal can go a long way.

Come Hungry & Leave Full (of Kindness)

Start the morning with a free breakfast served from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at Bethel Church (8938 33rd Street). While you're out and about, grab a free cup of coffee at Coffee Corner (207 South Rum River Drive) to keep you moving throughout your day.

Looking for lunch? Swing by First Congregational Church (610 1st Street) for a hot dog lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Cool down with a root beer float from Soul’s Church at the Splash Park or enjoy ice cream served by Santa Lucia's Ice Cream and New Life Church at Freshwaters United Methodist Church (112 7th Avenue North).

Free Essentials with Heart

Do you need a little help getting ready for the school year? Free school supplies are available at Freshwaters United Methodist Church, made possible by:

• Immanuel Lutheran Church
• Crystal Cabinets
• Civit Betterment Club
• Freshwaters UMC

Toiletries

Infant care items will be available at Rum River Life Choices (712 Rum River Drive), and Christ Our Light at Trinity Lutheran Church (111 6th Avenue North) is offering toiletries through SWAN (Stuff We All Need). While you’re there, pick up laundry soap from Crystal Cabinets, toilet paper, and a free clothing voucher from Twice New Clothing Center.

Free Books/CDs

Looking for something comforting? Pick out a free book or CD at Princeton Book & Bible (405 1st Street).

Free Clothing in all Sizes

Clothing in all sizes will be available at Princeton Evangelical Free Church (12140 317th Avenue) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.—because everyone deserves to feel good in what they wear.

Carnations

And before you head home, stop by Princeton Floral (605 1st Street) and pick up a free carnation. What a beautiful reminder of a day all about kindness.

ACTS OF KINDNESS

For years, Princeton’s Day of Kindness has helped bring neighbors together in the simplest, most powerful way: by showing up and giving freely. So while you’re enjoying the events this year, take a moment to do something kind, whether it’s offering someone a flower, holding a door, or just sharing a smile.
After all, kindness begins with us, and every little act of kindness matters.