The impacts of inflation are significant. The cost-of-living crisis is stretching household budgets all over the world. Yet, amid these challenges, many individuals are still stepping up to support one another in meaningful ways.
Whether it’s sharing resources or building support networks, communities are doing what they can to make life a bit easier for everyone.
“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” ―
Let’s take a look at some uplifting stories of people making a real difference by helping others through tough times.
- Woman sells affordable produce to support struggling youth
- Organization provides healthy, safe opportunities for play without fees
- Man offers affordable books to the community
- Street party brings community together
Positively Uplifting Stories | July 14 2025
Woman offers affordable food to support the needy youth in her community.
In the heart of bustling Tokyo stands a humble vegetable stall, with a beautiful message from its owner, “Tomo is here for you, so don’t worry about your future.”
Tomoko Oshimo is a Japanese farmer on a mission to help young people navigate the high cost of living.
Her vegetable stand is stocked with farm-fresh produce, meant for those wanting to save money.
After a successful career in real estate, Tomoko returned to her roots in farming, growing vegetables to give young people easier access to high-quality, affordable food.
“Tasty, cheap, fresh. I hope that it will help to make everyone a little happier,” said Tomoko.
Woman is on a mission to build free, drop-in play spaces for young children.
Hello Baby is a nonprofit organization that offers a safe space for young children in underserved neighborhoods in Chicago.
Founder Debbie Frisch emphasizes the value of play and community-centered interactions, which are crucial in the early years of a child’s life.
By providing affordable opportunities for play, Hello Baby aims to support the development and mental well-being of children in need.
“Safe places to play help to regulate the stress response. They help to improve brain development, the development of the immune system,” said Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, Pediatrician and former Surgeon General of California.
Driveway book sale fosters a community of book lovers.
Jeremy Borey’s driveway has become a haven for book lovers.
A longtime book dealer, Jeremy began selling textbooks during his college years. Today, his driveway book sales feature over 15,000 titles!
Jeremy’s book sale is bringing together a community of book lovers.
Thanks to an incredible response from the neighborhood, this mini library is constantly replenished. Jeremy even has a book donation bin at his home, where people regularly stop by to drop off books and keep the shelves full.
“Being in the book business, I know a lot of them get recycled and thrown away. And this is just a great way to keep good books going. That makes it worth it, definitely,” said Jeremy.
Community event brings attention to local businesses.
More than 225,000 people attended Vancouver’s Khatsahlano Street Party, an annual event that puts the spotlight on local bands, emerging artists, and artisan vendors.
This celebration is all about uplifting the local businesses and creating opportunities for a more economically vibrant community.
When the community comes together, local needs are addressed and overlooked groups gain support, driving real transformation!
“It is the busiest day of the year, and it allows them to showcase what they’ve got going on. New stores, of course, that are new to the neighborhood,” said Jane McFadden, West 4th BIA executive director.
The Power of Kindness
And there you have it! Did these stories spark some hope for you?
Every week we find examples of people in the world who are making it a better place, one vegetable stand, one book sale, one safe space for kids at a time.
As always, we’re grateful to have you here every week – take care of yourselves, and keep spreading that kindness. It makes a difference.