peer outreach.

skzbrust, better known as Steven Brust, author and banjo player--but don't hold that against him--is a friend of mine. He's been sick on and off the last couple of years, and hospital bills mount up.

Writers are self-employed sorts, and often do not have good medical coverage. (It's part of the price we pay to live our lives of luxury and leisure.)

Steve is facing bankruptcy. Because friends ganged up on him and made him do it, Steve has instituted a tip jar.

As another mutual friend, pecunium, put it:

I'd make some pitch, or a plea to your better natures, or an ode on the virtues of charity, but that's not the point. He could use some help. I think helping him is a good thing. If you agree, that's how you can help