When we see homeless people on the street, many of us make assumptions about what kind of person they are. Even if those assumptions are entirely subconscious, they might still be there.
Slacker.
Alcoholic.
Drug Addict.
But despite those subconscious assumptions, you can never know what that person’s story might be – as shown by this beautiful and arresting video from the Rethink Homelessness Campaign.
Watching the video, you learn about what these people have done in their past lives. What they have accomplished. What they have sacrificed.
Built robots.
Learned to speak four languages.
Surrendered their children, to save them from homelessness.
The Central Florida Commission on Homelessness, who are running the Rethink Homelessness Campaign, are trying to change perceptions around homelessness – while also trying to find housing for thousands of homeless people. You can learn more about the Rethink Homelessness campaign here.
Homelessness can happen to just about anybody. What would be on your cardboard sign?
To support the Homeless Population in Australia, visit Homelessness Australia.
Top Comments
I'm basically a run of the mill 20-something: I've been to uni, I've travelled, but I'm also currently homeless. Following a series of unfortunate events, I've slept in my storage unit, on the floor of student housing lounge rooms, and in refuge shelters; when I've really had nowhere to go, I've spent the night sitting in the emergency department of the Royal Melbourne Hospital. The last time I went to the City Mission to ask for help, I was subtly shamed by staff, who said I "don't look like a Stream 4" (someone requiring the highest level of assistance in finding work and housing). I wouldn't know how to put my persona on a sign; any money collected by beggars can legally be seized by police here anyway... Seven months ago I had a job, a partner, and a five-year plan. Homelessness CAN happen to anybody.
I noticed many of them have health issues, In America they have two choices, sell up everything to pay for medical treatment, or die. Let's hope we never get to that position in Australia.
The insurance companies are pushing for that and the $7 charge is the first step.