Showing posts with label homeless. Show all posts
Showing posts with label homeless. Show all posts

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Thirsty Lion

Thirsty Lion by susanvg
Thirsty Lion, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.
Photo: September 15, 2013

This lion sits at the gates of Chinatown in Montreal. Its bottle was deposited by one of the homeless people that congregate in the area. It is sad that so many take to the streets - many due to drug addiction and/or mental illness. While the lion represents power and wealth, these downtrodden are at the opposite end of society.

There are more than 20,000 homeless in Montreal. While there are services, many don't know how to access them or don't feel comfortable accessing them. This photograph was taken on a warm evening. Winter will set in and their plight will take on a more desperate outlook. There is far too much disparity in our society.

Friday, January 13, 2012

Under a Snowy Blanket

Under a Snowy Blanket by susanvg
Under a Snowy Blanket, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.
There she sat, holding her baby to her under the snowy blanket. Her bronze body didn't shiver.

Yet there are many homeless whose human flesh braves all elements as they seek out warmth in doorways, in metro stations - wherever warmth and shelter can be found. Recently a homeless man was shot by police in one of our metro stations. His mental state led to aggression. We have closed psychiatric beds, tried to medicate people out of their illnesses and sent them off. Without supervision and financial means, some end up on the streets. Surely, we can find better ways to support those who need it, to help them live safer and happier lives.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Love and the Homeless

Love and the Homeless by susanvg
Love and the Homeless, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.
This iconic sculpture sites in a park in downtown Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love. Ironic to see the sign as the pool is surrounded by benches full of homeless men. Notice the sleeping bag near the water. There is an astonishing number of homeless.

Mural - Philadelphia

Walking from the hotel to the ISTE conference (with a few detours), I passed some beautiful murals. Philadelphia is full of murals and other art work. I am always impressed by cities that value art. Public art is accessible to all. It speaks to the emotions and elicits laughter, a smile and even tears.

Benches


As Philadelphia is a very flat city, walking is easy, but benches are available for those who need a rest or just want to stop to admire the architecture.

Philadelphia City Hall

William Penn stands atop Philadelphia's City Hall overlooking the city. He must once have been able to see far and wide. Now modern buildings tower over the city obstruction his view in some directions. 

Modern Towers