Unsheltered homeless people are frequently dehumanized — by such things as trauma, addiction, circumstances and fear of others. But we should never forget that they are human beings and, as such, deserving of kindness and compassion. We can help an unsheltered homeless person by making them feel seen, loved and worthwhile.
Just a smile or making eye contact is all that it takes to validate their humanity. And that might be all the reason they need to live another day.