On September 16, 2024, our class embarked on a two-hour tour through Berlin-Charlottenburg, inspired by our study of Robert Swindles‘ novel Stone Cold, which explores the life of a homeless teenager. This immersive experience, guided by Thomas, a former homeless person, aimed to deepen our understanding of homelessness behind the pages of the book.
Thomas began by challenging our perceptions of homelessness. He explained that many people experiencing homelessness do not fit the stereotypes we might have; they often blend into everyday life. He even suggested that we might have passed by someone without realizing it. This insight set the stage for a profound exploration of his personal journey. The guide shared his story, detailing how he was forced out of his apartment in Bavaria due to his landlord’s need for the property, a situation surprisingly common these days. Seeking a fresh start, Thomas moved to Berlin, where he faced new challenges on the streets as he ran out of money for his hotel room.
During the tour, Thomas highlighted key locations of his days on the streets and shared his experiences with us. He recounted his struggle to survive around Christmas 2022, a period marked by extreme cold and COVID-19. He collected bottles to earn money to afford even one small meal per day, and we were given a task to spot bottles ourselves. The difficulty we experienced in locating even a few bottles underscored the harsh reality of his situation. Thomas also showed us places where he sought warmth and basic amenities. For example, he visited a bank to warm up and, when faced with police, pretended to be withdrawing money to avoid eviction.
Another significant stop was a gas station where Thomas could use the restroom, charge his phone, and warm up. His mention of having a phone surprised us, as we assumed homeless individuals had limited access to technology. Thomas explained that a phone is crucial for staying connected and accessing resources. He also pointed out a beverage shop, where he had tried to return the collected bottles and where he encountered mixed treatment from people. Some were helpful, while others treated him very poorly. He would only go to the store when certain person members were not present to avoid negative interactions.
A key moment during the tour was when Thomas told of an incident at the Christmas market in 2022, where he again had looked for bottles and then received money from a generous individual who had secretly poured all of his change into his bag. This act of kindness reinforced the importance of empathy, a central theme of the tour.
Thomas faced numerous obstacles while seeking support, including unresponsive organizations and bureaucratic challenges. Eventually, legal intervention helped him secure a place to stay and eventually find a regular apartment. He shared that finding a rental in Berlin is highly competitive, with listings disappearing in just minutes. Despite these challenges, Thomas managed to secure an unrenovated apartment, which he was happy to have as his own. Through this tour, Thomas emphasized that empathy is crucial. He reminded us that without humanity, even the warmest summer day can feel cold. This experience offered us a deeper, more personal understanding of homelessness, showing us the human side of a pressing social issue.
The tour with Thomas offered a powerful and personal perspective on homelessness in Berlin. We learned about the challenges of surviving on the streets, the vital role of empathy, and the systemic barriers that many face. Thomas’s story highlighted the complexities of homelessness beyond what is often seen. The tour deeply moved me and provided a meaningful connection to the issue and a deeper understanding of the novel we read in class.
I highly recommend this experience to friends and family, as it offers valuable insights and fosters a greater appreciation for the struggles faced by those without stable housing.
You can book Thomas’ tour at: https://querstadtein.org/tour/ohne-menschlichkeit-bleibt-es-kalt/
Bayan Taha, 10.4
