Powerful Photo Series Shows Homeless People Dressed As Their Life Dreams

Homelessness is an enormous problem that plagues the United States and other parts of the world. Last year, it was estimated that roughly 500,000 people were homeless in the United States, with roughly a quarter of them being children. Mental health issues, poverty, substance abuse, and stagnant wages have all contribute to this large number that governments at the local and federal level are desperately trying to lower. 

Photographer Horia Manolache was shocked when he noticed the considerable homeless population upon moving to San Francisco. In 2015, the city had 7,539 homeless people, a number that had been progressively increasing over the last several years. To bring awareness to such a big problem in his city, he decided that it was time to show that these people are just like you and me. They have dreams and aspirations too but at some point became isolated in a world that doesn’t understand their problems. Manolache’s photo series The Prince and the Pauper was aimed at showing homeless people in San Francisco as they are now next to the person they wish they would have become. 

These photos are incredibly powerful, and you should definitely see them for yourself.

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1. Shad

Shad became homeless after his girlfriend stole his wallet and his identity was stolen. His life became incredibly overwhelming after his credit score plummeted. Manolache said that “he didn’t have a moment to stop and think what his dreams were.”

2. Max

Manolache says, “Max is a Vietnam and Gulf war veteran,” having served in the army for 43 years. Max explained to Manolache that, upon returning from war, he gave up on life completely. Alcohol and other health problems now plague his life. One major regret he has in his life is not talking with his daughter more often. 

3. Mike

Originally from Ohio, Mike ran away from his state after police caught him smoking marijuana. Fortunately, he is rebuilding his life thanks to an organization in San Francisco. 

4. Tammy

“Tammy is a star on Height Street in San Francisco. If she can’t bring a smile to your face, then nobody will. Her biggest pain is that her grandmother and her first husband took her kids away from her,” said Manolache.