After spending the semester learning to record life in a more documentary fashion rather than in an artistic way, it became more difficult to think of themes to focus on. I decided to drive around the city of Savannah, hoping to find something to inspire me. While I was driving around, I kept seeing homes that are for sale or were in the process of being demolished. I thought it was interesting that a lot of the homes in the historic districts were being closed and boarded. It wasn’t until I drove by the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and saw there were many people camping that the idea sparked in my mind. It amazes me that there are so many homes and other buildings that are vacant and waiting for new buyers or demolishing.
Homelessness is an issue throughout this city and most cities throughout the country. Rather than focusing on the people that reside in our city and the fact that they cannot afford a comfortable home, I would like to look at the other side of the spectrum. Anyone could ask the question, “Why don’t these people just go to a homeless shelter or find a job in order to afford a home?” But I would like to ask, “Why there are so many vacant homes and buildings in this city that can be a shelter for people that do not have one?” I am not implying the opening of another homeless shelter, but it would be convenient to have an empty building to keep people warm and dry when the seasons have changed. The liability of the people staying in these buildings are the main concerns of this solution, however, in my opinion, people would appreciate having a shelter from the rain. I realize that people would be living in a building with no power or running water, but most people have found the means to take care of themselves with the little that they have already. Having a more protective roof over their heads could make a large difference.