Dear Anonymous,
It's a little bit like Filene's Basement on the sidewalks some mornings with clothing flying in and out of bins. Trying to find something that fits this 3XL guy and then a snug enough hoodie for this Medium guy. Sometimes it works; sometimes it doesn't. The socks were depleted today. No hand warmers available, or gloves ,or mittens. Things come and go rapid fire. They are always disappointed when the homemade coffee cake is gone. And it is always gone sooner than some arrive.
A hot cup of coffee remains the standard request. As are socks.
This is Todd. Todd has given me permission to photograph him for years. He astounded me years ago when he remembered my name (I am terrible at remembering names) and greeted me on the street the day he left the hospital after spinal surgery.
Today he has a smile. I cautiously share that he tells me he might have garnered housing. Maybe. All fingers crossed and everything else that can cross.He seemed enthusiastic and appreciative of his caseworkers.
He tells me he's been on the street for the better part of 10 years.