I am a firm supporter of doing for others who are down on their luck. I think I passed that trait along to Aaron who at times will give the change out of his car to a homeless person or share a sandwich and drink with someone who is hungry. That is a good trait and I always give with the idea that once I give it it is no longer mine and totally up to that person what to do with it—-I do not pass judgment! Or at least I TRY not to pass judgment! You just never truly know someone’s circumstances and if you give it should be freely with no strings attached.

That is why I was so excited to read that Panera had opened a non profit restaurant in Clayton, MO. The folks who can pay do and sometimes pay more. Those who can’t pay what they can or eat for free. Pretty risky and there is always a chance that someone will take advantage and get more than they need for less than they can afford but the statistics that they are reporting so far are that 60-70% pay full price, 15% pay extra, and another 15% pay less or nothing at all. It is a great idea that a major chain is trying out with more stores planned in the future. I would support it and would love to see one everywhere.

If you want to read more check out the article in USA Today at http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/food/2010-06-27-panera-pay-what-you-wish_N.htm