Only the strong survive

[RBSinTo]

Taken last week in front of one of the hospitals on University Avenue, here in Toronto.
A photobud and I were shooting and as we passed one of the large hospitals I noticed a homeless man with blanket in hand dumpster-diving in a trash receptacle.
The scene reminded me that it is around this time every year that the municipal government has it's annual debate what can be done to solve the problems of so many homeless persons in the city.
And as usual nothing gets done.
Nikon D3
Tamron SP 35~105 2.8 AIS manual focus
2.8 @ 1/640, ISO 200

[lovelife65]

This is a fantastic image with a great story. Thank you for sharing.

Taken last week in front of one of the hospitals on University Avenue, here in Toronto.
A photobud and I were shooting and as we passed one of the large hospitals I noticed a homeless man with blanket in hand dumpster-diving in a trash receptacle.
The scene reminded me that it is around this time every year that the municipal government has it's annual debate what can be done to solve the problems of so many homeless persons in the city.
And as usual nothing gets done.
Nikon D3
Tamron SP 35~105 2.8 AIS manual focus
2.8 @ 1/640, ISO 200

[Shadowman]

Nicely seen and captured.

[RBSinTo]

Thanks, John.
Robert

[Shadowman]

Thanks, John.
Robert

You are most welcome Robert, in my area it is against the law to rummage through cans; in some parks and a recent law against bottle collectors going through people's trash; panhandlers are required to have permits. Doesn't stop the occurrences but can be enforced at the police' discretion. We often hear topics such as quality of life which covers rummaging, panhandling, noise etc.

[lovelife65]

A lot of cities implementing "no sit" laws as well, to prevent street sleeping. It was going to happen in San Francisco before we moved to Washington I know. I can see both sides to the coin. In the Haight in San Fran there was very aggressive pan handling going on via "kids" moving to San Francisco thinking it would be fun to hang on the streets. Not cool.

Seattle is doing tent city sweeps now too. In those two cities (and Vancouver) I struggle with understanding any kind of solution. I know of people that move to these areas with jobs and something happens. This is probably more common than we want to know, and I think there is a lot of fear from people because so many are one paycheck away from being up s-creek. I've seen it in my own immediate relatives even. Not homelessness but w/o family bail outs pretty darn close. Midwestern towns desiccated from factory closures, Outsourcing of jobs, etc. Not everyone can be a coder, and life can be pretty overwhelming and far more complicated (and isolating) today I think. Add in mental illness and substance abuse and no family or those that give up and

But to move because it sounds cool, well guess what... it's also very $$$. Is a one way ticket to cheap-ville a better solution? I believe either Las Vegas or Reno (I forget now) was putting their homeless onto busses to San Francisco for awhile. Ugh.

You are most welcome Robert, in my area it is against the law to rummage through cans; in some parks and a recent law against bottle collectors going through people's trash; panhandlers are required to have permits. Doesn't stop the occurrences but can be enforced at the police' discretion. We often hear topics such as quality of life which covers rummaging, panhandling, noise etc.

[Shadowman]

A lot of cities implementing "no sit" laws as well, to prevent street sleeping. It was going to happen in San Francisco before we moved to Washington I know. I can see both sides to the coin. In the Haight in San Fran there was very aggressive pan handling going on via "kids" moving to San Francisco thinking it would be fun to hang on the streets. Not cool.

Seattle is doing tent city sweeps now too. In those two cities (and Vancouver) I struggle with understanding any kind of solution. I know of people that move to these areas with jobs and something happens. This is probably more common than we want to know, and I think there is a lot of fear from people because so many are one paycheck away from being up s-creek. I've seen it in my own immediate relatives even. Not homelessness but w/o family bail outs pretty darn close. Midwestern towns desiccated from factory closures, Outsourcing of jobs, etc. Not everyone can be a coder, and life can be pretty overwhelming and far more complicated (and isolating) today I think. Add in mental illness and substance abuse and no family or those that give up and

But to move because it sounds cool, well guess what... it's also very $$$. Is a one way ticket to cheap-ville a better solution? I believe either Las Vegas or Reno (I forget now) was putting their homeless onto busses to San Francisco for awhile. Ugh.

Yes, years ago the Vegas mayor had an intense hate for the homeless, I found this out from some of the residents; I was only there for a week and did get off the strip quite a few times but never witnessed it. When I visited San Francisco years ago a tour guide told me that most of the homeless had been on the street after the earthquake, when I did research on the quake it seemed the last major one was in the late eighties and it was in the late 2000s when I was there. Also, I read that the Mission District; where most of the homeless congregated is rapidly shrinking as the land is becoming valuable.

[NorthernFocus]

Similar to municipalities prosecuting the customers of illegal "vendors", Anchorage passed an ordinance making it illegal for motorists to give handouts to panhandlers plying their trade on public streets/intersections. The argument made at the time was to protect the vagrants themselves from stepping out into traffic. But the "trade" continues unabated and I've never heard of anyone actually being ticketed.

It's a difficult issue for all urban centers. And has been since the beginning of recorded history. Arguably one of many indications that human beings are no smarter today than then.

Sorry I don't have anything constructive or otherwise about the image. Though based on my impulse to respond I suppose it must be.... provocative

[Shadowman]

Similar to municipalities prosecuting the customers of illegal "vendors", Anchorage passed an ordinance making it illegal for motorists to give handouts to panhandlers plying their trade on public streets/intersections. The argument made at the time was to protect the vagrants themselves from stepping out into traffic. But the "trade" continues unabated and I've never heard of anyone actually being ticketed.

It's a difficult issue for all urban centers. And has been since the beginning of recorded history. Arguably one of many indications that human beings are no smarter today than then.

Sorry I don't have anything constructive or otherwise about the image. Though based on my impulse to respond I suppose it must be.... provocative

Dan,

Regarding the topic of homelessness any discussion bears sharing as long as it is civil. Living in an urban area I see a lot of the homeless in the neighborhood, I live surrounded by at least three commercial (bars, shopping, restaurant) districts and I've come to know some of the long term characters, I say it in that manner because I've been in the neighborhood for over fifteen years and still see some the same homeless people, it gets to a point where you sometimes give them nicknames if you don't already know their names. The names weren't derogatory, just a description of their most common traits such as "fast walker" or "professor".

[lovelife65]

Dan,

Regarding the topic of homelessness any discussion bears sharing as long as it is civil. Living in an urban area I see a lot of the homeless in the neighborhood, I live surrounded by at least three commercial (bars, shopping, restaurant) districts and I've come to know some of the long term characters, I say it in that manner because I've been in the neighborhood for over fifteen years and still see some the same homeless people, it gets to a point where you sometimes give them nicknames if you don't already know their names. The names weren't derogatory, just a description of their most common traits such as "fast walker" or "professor".

This is truth it can be civil. Doesn't always happen. I remember people in very tolerant San Francisco beginning to tire of stepping over human poo and needles. I remember working in Berkeley and walking passed the same lady every day. Her nickname was "spare any change?". Yet attempt for compassion. Getting to know them and their stories as you suggest. Come to find out we have about 50 homeless here in small town America. I don't know where they hide tho. Not downtown. As mentioned it's nothing new. I do think it's worsening tho. Too many people. Disappearing simple man jobs. No long term at same employer much anymore. Expensive housing. Nuclear family changing.

[Shadowman]

This is truth it can be civil. Doesn't always happen. I remember people in very tolerant San Francisco beginning to tire of stepping over human poo and needles. I remember working in Berkeley and walking passed the same lady every day. Her nickname was "spare any change?". Yet attempt for compassion. Getting to know them and their stories as you suggest. Come to find out we have about 50 homeless here in small town America. I don't know where they hide tho. Not downtown. As mentioned it's nothing new. I do think it's worsening tho. Too many people. Disappearing simple man jobs. No long term at same employer much anymore. Expensive housing. Nuclear family changing.

Sharon,

I remember hearing stories where a homeless person could knock on your door and ask to do chores for a meal or a few dollars, those days are long gone. Its not always that we are intolerant but some freedoms are long gone and you develop a cautious eye to strangers regardless of how they are dressed.

I shot this in 2013 at San Francisco pier.

[NorthernFocus]

Dan,

Regarding the topic of homelessness any discussion bears sharing as long as it is civil. Living in an urban area I see a lot of the homeless in the neighborhood, I live surrounded by at least three commercial (bars, shopping, restaurant) districts and I've come to know some of the long term characters, I say it in that manner because I've been in the neighborhood for over fifteen years and still see some the same homeless people, it gets to a point where you sometimes give them nicknames if you don't already know their names. The names weren't derogatory, just a description of their most common traits such as "fast walker" or "professor".

We attend Sunday service in downtown Anchorage. The location was chosen specifically to reach out to downtown residents from all walks of life. Various homeless individuals come hang out with us particularly during periods of foul weather. More show up and are welcome to join us when we have meals(once a month plus observed celebrations). One or two of them join us during worship but mostly they just hang out in the lobby, kitchen, etc. Without exception all of those who visit us are chemically and/or mentally impaired. We are among the original members of the congregation and have gotten to know a couple of the "regulars". I've had several discussions with one young man about getting off the street. He readily acknowledges using drugs, has no intention of stopping, and adamantly denies that having anything to do with his inability to hold down a job. One of our members employed him doing construction for a while but it ended predictably.

Most of those who visit us never ask outright for money. The one or two who do typically get very aggressive about it. I had one old woman(not seen before nor since) approach me three times the same morning without remembering that she had already hit me up. Same routine each time starting with a reasonable explanation of need, switching to pity, and finally rage/threats.

Interestingly Mosaic Law mandated material support for the poor, orphans, widows, and immigrants. On a percentage basis fairly significant support. Conditions haven't changed much in over three millenia since.

[lovelife65]

Sharon,

I remember hearing stories where a homeless person could knock on your door and ask to do chores for a meal or a few dollars, those days are long gone. Its not always that we are intolerant but some freedoms are long gone and you develop a cautious eye to strangers regardless of how they are dressed.

I shot this in 2013 at San Francisco pier.

Cute photo.... I think. At least the dogs are beautiful LOL

[lovelife65]

We attend Sunday service in downtown Anchorage. The location was chosen specifically to reach out to downtown residents from all walks of life. Various homeless individuals come hang out with us particularly during periods of foul weather. More show up and are welcome to join us when we have meals(once a month plus observed celebrations). One or two of them join us during worship but mostly they just hang out in the lobby, kitchen, etc. Without exception all of those who visit us are chemically and/or mentally impaired. We are among the original members of the congregation and have gotten to know a couple of the "regulars". I've had several discussions with one young man about getting off the street. He readily acknowledges using drugs, has no intention of stopping, and adamantly denies that having anything to do with his inability to hold down a job. One of our members employed him doing construction for a while but it ended predictably.

Most of those who visit us never ask outright for money. The one or two who do typically get very aggressive about it. I had one old woman(not seen before nor since) approach me three times the same morning without remembering that she had already hit me up. Same routine each time starting with a reasonable explanation of need, switching to pity, and finally rage/threats.

Interestingly Mosaic Law mandated material support for the poor, orphans, widows, and immigrants. On a percentage basis fairly significant support. Conditions haven't changed much in over three millenia since.

I understand what you are saying. There are those that cannot nor want to be helped. Absolutely. I saw lots of "abuse" when I volunteered at St. Vincents in East Oakland. On the other hand, I tried to focus my attention on those that were truly destitute... the only meal they got that day was the one meal at St. Vincents. People make poor choices. They get involved in things they shouldn't. They have bad luck. Medical stuff. Whatever. Sometimes it is difficult to remain compassionate, but I know there are those that need it.

[Shadowman]

Cute photo.... I think. At least the dogs are beautiful LOL

Thanks Sharon.

[lovelife65]

Sorry for turning this into a social commentary thread. LOL.
The image is wonderful, thanks for sharing.

[NorthernFocus]

...Sometimes it is difficult to remain compassionate, but I know there are those that need it.

I was always a "pull yourself up by the boot straps" kind of guy. But my heart has been softened. Paraphrasing somewhat, "having received mercy we must be merciful in return". So while being compassionate isn't always easy it is a mandate. Turning that compassion into something tangible is the challenge from both a practical and a moral standpoint. When dealing with people with substance abuse issues it's not hard to anticipate where they'll spend any money you give them. We've also learned that even if you give them newly purchased clothing you have to remove the tags or they are likely to take it back to the point of purchase and try to get a refund. Same thing this time of year when contributing toys to kids in economically disadvantaged families. Sadly the parents often try to take the toys back for refunds and use the cash to buy alcohol/drugs.

It seems that feeding those in need has the highest likelihood of actually contributing to their well being. Preferably hot meals if/when possible. And most towns/cities in the US have some sort of food bank program that will accept left overs, canned goods, etc. Another option is to hand out care packages with food, warm socks, stocking hats, etc. rather than cash to panhandlers. The first time we tried the care packages we expected "negative feedback" for not giving them cash. But I have to say that generally they are received with a thank you. One can argue that they'll simply use what they saved on a meal to buy more drugs. Maybe so but at least they had something to eat for one more day. And maybe tomorrow is the day that something miraculous happens that changes their life for the better.

[lovelife65]

I was always a "pull yourself up by the boot straps" kind of guy. But my heart has been softened. Paraphrasing somewhat, "having received mercy we must be merciful in return". So while being compassionate isn't always easy it is a mandate. Turning that compassion into something tangible is the challenge from both a practical and a moral standpoint. When dealing with people with substance abuse issues it's not hard to anticipate where they'll spend any money you give them. We've also learned that even if you give them newly purchased clothing you have to remove the tags or they are likely to take it back to the point of purchase and try to get a refund. Same thing this time of year when contributing toys to kids in economically disadvantaged families. Sadly the parents often try to take the toys back for refunds and use the cash to buy alcohol/drugs.

It seems that feeding those in need has the highest likelihood of actually contributing to their well being. Preferably hot meals if/when possible. And most towns/cities in the US have some sort of food bank program that will accept left overs, canned goods, etc. Another option is to hand out care packages with food, warm socks, stocking hats, etc. rather than cash to panhandlers. The first time we tried the care packages we expected "negative feedback" for not giving them cash. But I have to say that generally they are received with a thank you. One can argue that they'll simply use what they saved on a meal to buy more drugs. Maybe so but at least they had something to eat for one more day. And maybe tomorrow is the day that something miraculous happens that changes their life for the better.

Hi Dan, very well said. Thank you for sharing a wonderful perspective.