in NYC, citizens are encouraged to donate to charities instead of ‘panhandlers’. unfortunately some non-profits are ‘corrupt’ and it’s up to your discretion to research your local charities. Personally, I volunteer with animal orgs, and I use food pantries pretty often, they are always looking for donations and volunteers. volunteering goes a much longer way but not everyone has the time
chao, miyoko, and violife are usually the best. I don’t have a favorite yet, but making your own cheese is easy: soak cashews, grind them up, mix in seasonings & refrigerate. alternatively silken tofu or plant milk can be boiled to make cheese as well