Homeless People,living on the Streets in our Towns .

Hello, my name is Brian. I am homeless and have been since I broke up with my girlfriend two years ago. At the moment I am living in the streets of Sacramento. Every morning I procure a newspaper and, if I have money, I buy a six pack of beer, I stop off at a bathroom in a fast food restaurant and wash and shave. I like to be clean,

My favorite hang out during the day is in the local park. There are sheltered picnic tables where I can set out my newspaper. I like to keep up to date with the news. Breakfast is a can of beer, strong high alcohol brew. I check out the job section. Sometimes I get handyman jobs which enable me to buy my necessary beer supply. I am an alcoholic, my parents have sent me to rehab four times. I like beer, I need beer, they don't understand. I only see family members at Thanksgiving. Some of them do not know about my life style. This is about the only time I see my son who is disgusted with my beer habit, no I'll rephrase that, that I am an alcoholic. I cannot function without it.

If it is a nice day I will go and join other homeless people under the trees with their dogs. Dogs have nice warm body and keep you cosy at night. They also help with panhandling, which can be very lucrative as people seem to be more concerned about the dogs than the people. I receive a small pension as I am a Vietnam Vet. Doesn't seem to count for much these days but I still get the nightmares.

At weekends I travel the whole park and check out the garbage bins for cans. It is very competitive these days as two black rubbish sacks full can bring $30. It is best after parties in the summer. Some of my old friends remember me and know where to find me. I sometimes get work from them and a hot meal.

During the day I play my radio, battery operated. I usually listen to religious channels as it confirms my faith. I know God is looking after me and I think I have a good life with the ultimate freedom.

I have many places to hide at night which are relatively comfortable and sheltered. If the cops find me they usually just caution me and leave me alone. As long as I have my beer I am happy. Sometimes people talk to me and try to make me change my ways. They don't know that I can't function without Beer. It is my lifeblood I need my Beer.

Thank you for stopping to talk to me, but please realise I can't give up my beer, besides I need the cans.

Footnote Today, a year later I bumped into "Brian" again. We were walking our dogs. He remembered me and shook my hand. "So nice to see you" he said. He was looking good and had grown a small, neat beard. I asked him how things were going. "I have a job and I'm doing well" Not a trace of alcohol on his breath. Things can get better!

Another positive outlook, http://www.salon.com/2012/11/12/major_hurdles_remain_to_end_veteran_homelessness_2/?source=newsletter

Let's hope it works!