Thousands of people who use a certain section of Memorial Drive to traverse Greenville have routinely done so without knowing they were passing an encampment of homeless citizens. The combination of tents and tarps that provide makeshift shelter for a number of people is hidden from view by a grove of tall pines and other vegetation.

It is not uncommon for those members of society without access to adequate protection from the elements to find inconspicuous places to dwell. Some have taken shelter in this area known as “tent city” for years on end. Their circumstances may vary but their basic needs are the same. As more and more compassionate hands reach out to those in such dire situations, however, awareness of their plight begins to rise — as does the possibility of them finding a path to a safer and warmer living standard.

A recent display of such outstretched hands came in the form of a Super Bowl party. The novel idea may have found more participation among the homeless populations of larger cities across the nation, but its purpose for providing assistance and raising awareness was accomplished in Greenville as well.

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