This eye-catching image masks a somewhat sinister situation. It is painted on a piece of plywood securing a cellar window on a building across Watchung Avenue from City Hall.
The porch was a favorite spot for vagrants over the summer, as well as those who swiped donations from the Salvation Army box across the street and used the porch as a fitting room to try things on before discarding what they didn't want.
The boarded-up doors and windows most likely mean squatters have tried to take over the building as cold weather approaches.
It is sad to think we have people so desperate for shelter and clothing, but it has been a fact of life in the city for many years and only got worse with the economic downturn. If you are doing relatively well, this is the time for an end-of-year charitable donation that may even be tax-deductible.Every time I think I am at the low end of the economic scale as a retiree with a small pension, I see a reminder like this that I am generally able to meet my needs for the necessities of life, while crossing paths daily in my neighborhood with those who are not. It is not too late to amend your holiday gift list with something for those in dire need at this time of year.
--Bernice
Hey, Bernice,
ReplyDeleteEven if folks don't have old coats to give away, they can always go up to Unique or another thrift store and buy four or five coats for less than $10 each, and donate them to one of the many coat drives that are occurring during this season.
Rebecca
And prices are 25 percent off at Unique Mondays and Thursday. Holidays are 50 percent off.
ReplyDeleteRebecca !!
ReplyDeleteSuch a good idea ! Kudos ! Adding that to my list of things to do before the holidays...thank you!