The importance of community in Sevilla

Introduction:

In the United States, there is a huge stigma towards people without a home, but here in Sevilla it is quite different. There are many homeless people on the streets due to the competitive job market and expensive rent costs, but these people are not ashamed of their situation. There is actually a group-based organization that, once or twice a week, brings new clothing, food and supplies for people living on the street.

What community need did I learn about?:

People without a home greatly benefit from the organized groups around the city that help out with supplies and food/water. With soup kitchens and local donations, the homeless here are able to eat and talk to other people. This builds a greater community. While there is a homeless community, it is important that this group has people to help them and recognize them as human beings. Often tourists and natives will ignore someone on the street asking for help. I know I was doing that because I thought it was better, but this organization claims that it is more kind to just say no. 

Some of the people do not even feel that they need help. There are lots of artists that sell their art or work on the street and take pride in their life. It is a different way of thinking about homelessness compared to what we see and experience in the United States.

Pages