FAQs
We receive a number of common questions about the HPBP, so we've created this listing of common questions and answers, shown below. If you have any questions that are outside the scope of the information below, please contact Mr. Carl Rosa at carldrosa@yahoo.com.
We're happy to answer any questions.
What is the mission of the Houston Peanut Butter Project?
The one (and only mission) of the HPBP (Houston Peanut Butter Project) is to feed the homeless using one of the most delicious, basic and inexpensive sandwiches - peanut butter and jelly. 90% of the sandwiches are peanut butter and jelly while 10% are cheese sandwiches. We also provide bottled waters as well. The only mission is to use a delicious, basic and simple food to feed people who are hungry. There is no other objective.
When and How did the HPBP begin?
Carl Rosa is a sushi instructor, teaching sushi classes throughout Texas, Colorado and Atlanta. In 2021, he spent some time chatting with a man (apparently homeless) and over a 30 minute conversation, the man explained that he a former military serviceman and was simply down on his luck. He said - "The biggest challenge is eating, getting a meal. We quickly figure out where to sleep and live but simply eating is the biggest challenge." Carl went home and looked for anything that was already in his food cupboard but could provide the man with a simple meal. He made two peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, drove back and gave them to the man. The man was deeply appreciative and Carl quickly realized that it costs less than 75 cents to feed someone in need of a meal. Whenever he made the time in his schedule, Carl began making sandwiches and giving them away. After a while, a few friends wanted to help. Over time, people started contacting Carl for assistance and ideas. To answer everyone's questions and provide ideas to others, he founded the Houston Peanut Butter Project in September 2022. Depending on Carl's teaching schedule, he provides sandwiches to hungry citizens 2 - 4 times per month.
Can we financially contribute to the HPBP?
No. We greatly appreciate the interest of helping, but the HPBP will not accept financial donations to ensure there is no concerns for special interests, obligations, questionable accounting concerns or even the slightest hint of misappropriations. While we do encourage and greatly appreciate donations of peanut butter, jelly, sliced sandwich bread, sandwich bags and bottle water, we do not accept financial donations.
How is the HPBP funded?
Carl Rosa simply funds the HPBP with small percentages of profits from his sushi classes. Since the cost of making peanut butter sandwiches is low, the entire project is funded from Carl's business. Donations of sandwich-making materials are appreciated, but offering financial donations are appreciated but not necessary. We will gladly accept donations of sandwich-making material (bread, peanut butter, bottled waters, etc.).
Are there concerns for homeless people who might be allergic to peanuts and peanut butter?
Definitely. While 90% of the sandwiches are made with peanut butter and jelly, 10% of the sandwiches are made with cheese and a little mayonnaise for flavor. The sandwiches bags themselves are labeled with the words 'Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich' or 'Cheese & Mayo Sandwich' on the front of the plastic sandwich bag. The labels contain a descriptive photo of the item(s) in the event that someone is unable to read as well as a description (in English and Spanish) to be extra-helpful.
Do you use schedule visits to certain areas?
No. We find a group of homeless people within the city of Houston, Texas and then make a plan to visit that spot later in the week. Creating the sandwiches (sometimes 100-150 sandwiches) takes time, so we need to plan a day of the week when the sandwiches can be made, packaged, labeled and then delivered all in one day. Whenever we find a group of people in need who happen to be living in an area, we will provide them with sandwiches and bottled water as soon as we can arrange it.
If you have any questions that are outside the scope of the information below, please contact Mr. Carl Rosa at carldrosa@yahoo.com. We're happy to answer any questions.