Some of my documentary photo assignments mean a great deal to me. One which moved me to tears took place earlier this year when when I went out on a run with the wonderful volunteers from Manchesters Mad Dogs Street Project, and took photos throughout the night. We met some lovely people who, largely due to bad luck, have ended up on the streets. One of them was Marco, an artist who sleeps in doorways in the city centre. As well as providing meals to the rough-sleepers, the Mad Dogs volunteers give out donated clothing and survival gear. One of the shots has recently been adopted by the project for promotional purposes. In it Marco takes delivery of a brand new sleeping bag, as well as a rucksack to store it in. His humble acceptance and insistence that he make us all paper peace cranes by way of thanks brought tears to my eyes. I cannot stress too highly how vital the work of this project is, and how important it is that the public support it. It is run entirely by volunteers, distributing supplies donated by the people of Manchester. There is ALWAYS a need for food and clothing, especially now as the winter closes in. If you can spare food items suited to stews, curries and casseroles, such as canned meat, beans, tomatoes, chick peas etc, and dried carbs like rice and pasta, these will be greatfully received by the volunteer cooks. Bottled water is also very welcome. Warm clothing is vital, particularly fleeces, tracksuit bottoms, hats, scarves, gloves, and underwear. Mad Dogs will also accept all other kinds of clothing, because what isnt suitable for distribution can be sold to provide income to keep the project going. Donations can be dropped off at Elliotts Fruit and Veg shop in Chorlton precinct. Please give generously. Lives literally depend on your kindness.
Posted on: Thu, 30 Oct 2014 11:16:42 +0000
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