From Street Artist To Chiswick Fruit And Veg Seller
Homeless man tells how his life improved after kind gesture from stallholder
Shane (on right) with Richard, at the stall
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Life has taken on a positive turn for a homeless man who had spent several months sitting outside a local pharmacy shop on Chiswick High Road.
Shane, who was regularly seen outside Campbell's Chemist, has been given temporary employment at the adjacent fruit and veg stall and says his life has a new purpose.
His fortunes turned when he struck up a friendship with the staff at the Collins Fruit and Veg stall as he sat for long hours selling home-made cards.
About four months ago, he was asked if would be willing to help out on a temporary basis, and now he is a familiar sight at the stall, particularly at weekends.
Londoner Shane told Chiswickw4.com that his work disappeared during the pandemic and he was left without any money.
"It was very difficult. I came to Chiswick and I had to ask for charity, but I made cards with leaves on the front and tried to sell them to make some money.
"I wasn't homeless because of drugs or alcohol. I had to take care of my mum but I couldn't live with her as it wasn't allowed by the Council. So with the money I make now, I can book a room for myself and still get to see her for breakfast."
He said people in Chiswick had been very kind to him and helped out.
"People recognise me. I got to know everyone up and down the street. I got on well with the shopkeepers, the police, everyone. I wasn't messy and I always cleaned up."
The fruit and veg stall is owned by Kevin and Lavinia McLoughlin, and employee Richard ('Titch') said it was great to see how Shane had fitted in so well.
Local residents have been very supportive and one commented to Chiswickw4.com,"It's nice to see positive things like this happening in our community."
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October 16, 2022
