Meet Michael!

Meet Michael, 60, homeless, divorced, two kids and has serious health issues.  

I explained I was taking his picture for a news story and he spent 30 minutes telling me and showing me his doctor bills....eager to prove he is not faking his pan handling and to discuss his predicament.

Afterwards, I met a woman who told me about her intricate system of blankets and sleeping bags in the tent she shares with Michael for warmth and protection.  The contrast of Michael around the corner from Whole Foods was a major one and I guess that's why this guilt strip in Charlotesville is a popular destination for homeless folks.  A few days later, I met two new folks who told me all about foods to donate; like jerky, nuts and dried fruit.  Makes sense, no place to cook and it comes in resealable zip lock pouches.  But, blankets and woman's boots were talked about quite a bit.

Close up, it's clear to me, these folks were not faking it and could really use some help.  According to them, maybe just 1 in 10 are phony and they actually try to drive them away! If you are so inclined, but feel weird about donating directly, or worry your dollars may go to drug use, please donate to your local food bank and shelters....Ron

http://www.brafb.org/
http://charlottesville_va.suntopia.org/homeless_shelters.php