HOMELESS ENCAMPMENT STEPS UP TO HELP STRANDED DRIVER
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - In a heartwarming display of kindness, a homeless encampment under the freeway came to the aid of a stranded driver when her car ran out of gas on September 17.
Juli Cobb, a creative arts teacher in Albuquerque, was driving home from work when her vehicle sputtered to a stop near the crowded homeless encampment. According to Cobb, she was "sitting there so vulnerable, and I was anxious" as she waited for help to arrive.
That's when a man from the encampment came to her aid, asking if she needed assistance. Cobb explained her situation, and the man offered to help but first had to get her car out of the road. The unidentified individual successfully relocated Cobb's vehicle, allowing her to continue on her way.
The incident highlights the often-overlooked kindness of those living in homeless encampments. According to a 2020 report by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, there were approximately 552,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night in the United States. However, stories like Cobb's serve as a reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, humanity and compassion can prevail.
Cobb expressed her gratitude for the stranger's help, saying, "I was amazed by his kindness and generosity. It really made me think about how we judge people based on their circumstances."
The incident has sparked conversation among locals about the importance of community support and understanding. As one resident noted, "It just goes to show that even in the darkest of times, there's always hope and kindness to be found."
As for Cobb, she plans to continue spreading awareness about the issue of homelessness and the need for compassion and understanding.
By the numbers:
552,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night (2020 report by National Alliance to End Homelessness)
1 in 5 people experiencing homelessness are living with a mental illness or substance abuse disorder
Related stories:
"My Unsung Hero" series highlights stories of kindness and compassion
Albuquerque's homeless population continues to grow, sparking concerns about affordable housing and services.
This article is part of the My Unsung Hero series, which features stories of people whose kindness left a lasting impression on someone else.
*Reporting by Npr.*
