Slow Descent into Hell

In winter it becomes harder not to see them, tougher to avert our gaze as we pass them by. The brutal storms of January tear through the cloak of statistics, and once again an abstract problem -- discussed in terms of percentage increases and changing demographics -- becomes a shivering man or woman struggling for survival, a pair of eyes that painfully remind us of our human bond. In cities across the nation shelters overflow, leaving the spillage to cope on steam grates or in subway tunnels or wherever else warmth can be found. These street people are the most destitute...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!