Gutter Boy

by Nj Goovaerts

This real life story - that occurred over an eight month period illustrates that trying to help destitute Pinoys - certainly when they are somewhat older - is foolish, pointless and vain. Giving money isn't doing any good, beyond very temporary relief. Every time they succeed in securing a wad of cash, they're under the impression they've finally hit the jackpot; but it turns into a fata morgana, when yet another disillusioned and abused foreigner throws in the towel. The money transfers are like sending food to kwashiorkor patients or liquor to an alcoholic; it alleviates the hunger or the thirst temporary, but it's never enough.