It’s been just over a month since I returned from Switzerland, and while not directly tied to my travels, an unexpected encounter a few weeks ago shed light on societal challenges, both locally and globally. Switzerland, renowned for its affluent reputation and high salaries, proudly boasts the second lowest rate of homelessness in Europe. During my stay, I hadn’t witnessed any signs of homelessness, so I reached out to acquaintances in search of insights. Can we glean lessons from them on how to address this issue?
“Switzerland harbours the second smallest homeless population of 2,200 individuals per night. With a notably larger population size of 8.63 million people, Switzerland’s homelessness rate hovers at a mere 0.02%. That’s approximately 1 homeless person for every 3,925, ranking among the lowest rates globally.” This revelation certainly warrants further investigation, perhaps through initiatives like the Swiss Homeless World Cup
A few weeks ago, while attempting an early bedtime, an unexpected turn of events led me on an unplanned evening stroll, simply aiming to close the circles on my watch! What transpired was a poignant encounter with an elderly gentleman, sitting motionless on a park bench. Initially, my check-in provided reassurance that he was alright, yet an underlying struggle lingered palpably. Despite my inner hesitation, I felt compelled to ask for, and was graciously granted, permission to sit beside him. The gentleman, battling anxiety and homelessness, bravely shared a heartbreaking tale of abandonment, abuse, and systemic neglect.
Moved to action, I provided food and blankets; however, my concern had me calling the non-emergency local police number to inquire about available shelters. That is when I discovered that there were no shelters in my district, and the one in the adjacent district was at capacity. Instead, he would have to board a bus into the city and into areas that he described as threatening. He would be then expected to walk several blocks north, then two east before heading south to a shelter that would hopefully still be open. We agreed to meet at the same spot the next evening so that I could provide an update. Later at home, I left phone messages before crawling into my warm bed. His bench was within my line of sight…
Our planned meeting the following evening was thwarted by his early morning arrest, witnessed from my balcony window. When I went down to notify them that the Starbucks gift card in his possession was from me, and should not be considered stolen goods, a disapproving merchant within the community accused me of condoning such individuals.
On a brighter note, the gentleman was eventually transported to hospital for evaluation and care. I fervently hope he finds the warmth and the support he needs to navigate this challenging chapter of his life.
This incident forces us to confront not only the unravelling fabric of our society but also the urgent need for empathy in a world grappling with unprecedented challenges. As we navigate a post, post-COVID world, let’s not lose sight of the critical importance of compassion, recognizing that many are left with nothing but their last shred of dignity.
