Seconds from downtown, free sidewalk parking ...
I'm sharing a piece I did entitled "Seconds From Downtown, Free Sidewalk Parking." (It's in the Image Gallery). It's a painting done in sepia tones to give the appearance of a newspaper photo. It's of the man who panhandles near St. Michael's hospital in downtown Toronto. He's sleeping on the cold pavement, near his wheelchair, in front of a trendy cafe. People are inside eating. Often, people walk by and do a double-take like, "Holy crap! Some guy in a wheelchair is lying on the dirty sidewalk!" I've heard people say, "Don't they have special places for those people to go?"
"Those people" are just like all of us ... except they have no home or any fight left to try and ensure they keep their roof over their head.
Ontario Disability gives them $445 for shelter. No place is available for a rent of $445.
katgrrl I know what it is like when you have nowhere to turn to. If ever you need a place to stay and your family will not help you. you can stay here in bc on saltspring island I only charge 375 for rent and it includes everything tv wifi internet hydro parking insurance and phone everyone here is chill and we have all been there just thought I would offer and sorry I made you cry the other day I was just furious at what you went thru and how your family and friends were not there to support you anyway good luck in toronto and if you ever visit bc I would be happy to have you with love and respect mason.
Mason, you are an angel. And I didn't cry in sadness but rather because I realized there are many caring people on this site, you especially. Thank you so much for your offer. I may make it out your way some day to say thanks in person.
Love and gratitude,
Kat