There are 29,000 Australian children who are homeless, deprived of a home, school, friends, and pets. The story of Tilly highlights the struggles that many people face, including veterans like Joe who lived under a bridge after struggling to overcome his time in the war. Despite the legendary rehabilitation services available to veterans with mental illness, many like Joe never get to enjoy them, leading to high rates of homelessness and suicide among veterans. The author mourns the death of a friend who took his own life after living on the streets for years, and when she returned to the bridge to check on Joe, he was gone.
Another man, Aaron, found himself homeless after years in the construction industry due to incurable nerve damage and arthritis. He faced harassment from various individuals throughout the day and night, but he still looked out for others and offered to help those in need. The author reflects on the importance of empathy and support for homeless individuals like Aaron and stresses the need for real solutions to homelessness. She emphasizes that anyone could end up in a similar situation and that kindness towards homeless individuals goes a long way.
The author shares her own experience of being homeless at 54 years old with multiple disabilities, surviving a traumatic childhood. She highlights the shared humanity and strength that exists within the homeless community, emphasizing the need for empathy and real solutions to address homelessness. She encourages readers to take action against homelessness by supporting organizations like Mission Australia, Launch Housing, or Youth Off The Streets, and by advocating for housing as a basic human need that all Australians should have access to.
The author’s story sheds light on the struggles faced by homeless individuals, including veterans and those with disabilities, and the importance of compassion and support in addressing homelessness. She challenges the notion of exceptionalism and emphasizes the shared vulnerability and strength within humanity. By sharing her story and advocating for real solutions to homelessness, the author calls for empathy and kindness towards homeless individuals, stressing the importance of addressing homelessness as a societal issue that requires collective action.
In conclusion, the author calls for empathy, support, and real solutions to address homelessness in Australia, highlighting the stories of individuals like Tilly, Joe, and Aaron who have experienced homelessness due to various circumstances. She urges readers to take action by supporting organizations that work to address homelessness, advocating for housing as a basic human need, and showing kindness towards homeless individuals. The author’s own experience of homelessness and survival highlights the need for a compassionate and proactive approach to addressing homelessness and supporting those in need.
