New Guide Book for Rome’s homeless

A new edition of the “Where to Eat, Sleep and Wash” guide for the homeless in Rome was presented yesterday, 10 January, by the Community of Sant’Egidio (in Italian).

The guide, which was first published in 1990 and is now in its 17th edition, contains addresses and maps of places where Rome’s homeless can eat, sleep and wash for free.

Officially called “Dove” (Italian for “where”) but nicknamed the “Michelin guide for the poor“, the guide also has information about medical clinics, social assistance and job training.

While it makes me sad that such a guide is needed, the fact of the matter is that homelessness worldwide is on the rise. I’m sure, anyone reading this will agree that no matter where you live, you should as a minimum have the right to safe and secure shelter.

So what can we do as travellers to help? Well, making a donation to one of the many charities that work to put a stop to homelessness, would be one easy way to help out. A quick search on the internet should help you locate any charities that operate in the country, you want to visit. Volunteering might even be an option, if you’re visiting a country for more than just a couple of weeks.

While you’re searching, look for charities in your own area as well. It is all too easy to recognize the social problems in other countries, but turn a blind eye to what is happening in your own neighbourhood.

Perhaps that is really the best way to help the homeless wherever they may be – by recognizing that they exist. Don’t just turn a blind eye or pretend you didn’t hear them ask for money. It’s your choice to give money or not, but at least have the decency to acknowledge the presence of another human being. By acknowledging that homelessness exists, surely we will have the decency to solve this social problem?

So the next time you get asked to spare some change, be it at home or when travelling, don’t just walk on, acknowledge the person and if you’re feeling really humane, strike up a conversation.

Responsible Traveller series

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Technorati Tags: homelessness, Community of Sant’Egidio, Michelin guide for the poor, Dove, Where to Eat Sleep and Wash guide, Rome, Italy