Homelessness, a pressing societal issue, presents as the lack of stable housing and a safe place to call home. It is a growing crisis and requires urgent action. But how can we make an impact on such a multifaceted problem?

        Shannon Johnson, a former homeowner in an assistant manager position, now sleeps in a farm feed sack on the streets of London, Ont., with her dog, Randy. The question of whether individuals experiencing homelessness feel forgotten is a distressing one.

       "I worked all my life. I made one bad decision and it put me on the street. It's horrible," said Johnson. "I've worked all my life 'till I was 16 and I don't get any credit for any of that. I am nothing now because I'm guilty of location. I'm guilty by appearance. I'm guilty by association” (CBC News, 2022). These are words that cast a chilling light on a frightening reality. 

       So, how can we make a difference in the lives of those who might feel abandoned by society? It begins with simple compassion- acknowledging the presence of those experiencing homelessness, and recognizing their humanity. A warm smile, a friendly greeting, or a helping hand can go a long way. 

      It's not always about providing grand solutions; sometimes, what individuals truly desire is acknowledgment, the assurance that they matter too. When individuals experiencing homelessness feel noticed and supported by their community, they are more likely to seek help, participate in rehabilitation programs, or utilize accessible services. (Holthaus, n.d)

     Patrice Bigirmana, a recent immigrant, had been sleeping on the streets since he arrived in Canada, ignored and unacknowledged. After being taken in by a compassionate local church, he expressed his gratitude, saying "now, we have shelter. It's very good," he said in an interview. "We sleep, take a shower. When we need to wash our clothes, it will be good." (CBC News, 2023)

     To conclude, compassion acts as an agent to remind individuals experiencing homelessness that they aren't just faceless figures on the street; they are valued, loved, and capable of being more than their circumstances. 

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References

Here are the stories of 4 people living on the streets in London, Ont. CBC News. (2022, July 28). https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/london/here-are-the-stories-of-4-people-living-on-the-streets-in-london-ont-1.6533875

Toronto asylum seekers moved to North York churches as Feds Boost funding for shelter support. CBC News. (2023, July 18). https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/newcomers-toronto-shelter-north-york-church-1.6909624

Holthaus, J. (2023, October 2). Mental illness stigma keeps people from seeking help. Our support can make a difference. Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. https://www.pinerest.org/newsroom/articles/mental-illness-stigma-keeps-people-from-seeking-help-blog/