The high incidence of homelessness in Spain due to the financial climate means that, contrary to common perceptions, many of those living on the street are perfectly capable of doing regular work. The project aims to support them in securing a consistent, steady source of income. During these early stages of the project, our homeless language partners have told us that teaching and meeting people gives them a sense of purpose and makes them feel useful. This heightened morale and confidence not only supports them during a difficult time in their lives, but we believe it helps them refrain from alcohol and substance abuse, and improves their chances of getting off the street.
Here's what some of our students have to say about the project:
"BCN Street talk was a great experience! I had a lovely time having coffee with the instructor. It is a unique way to get to know someone from Barcelona and share each other’s stories, while also practising and learning Spanish. The meetup was facilitated by two members from the BCN Street Talk team so that both sides felt comfortable with the initial meet-up." - Lindsey
"This is such an innovative and natural way to learn and the best bit is that you really make a difference. Making someone feel useful who generally doesn't, is an incredible feeling." - Matt
"Making a homeless person feel integrated back into society is extremely rewarding. I started the conversation classes with a homeless person who was allocated to me by Alessandra and Evon. I greeted the person like I would do a friend, which helped break down a barrier from the start. The classes were great!!! I needed to practice speaking Spanish and we conversed and laughed the whole 50 minutes. He even gave me some fabulous ideas for a speech I was to give in Spanish later that day!! I intend to continue the classes for sure!" - Sarah
"I'm having a great time learning Spanish! My language partner is very patient and dedicated to helping me improve. As a result, my Spanish level is quickly improving. What a fantastic project this is." - Christel
Here's what some of our students have to say about the project:
"BCN Street talk was a great experience! I had a lovely time having coffee with the instructor. It is a unique way to get to know someone from Barcelona and share each other’s stories, while also practising and learning Spanish. The meetup was facilitated by two members from the BCN Street Talk team so that both sides felt comfortable with the initial meet-up." - Lindsey
"This is such an innovative and natural way to learn and the best bit is that you really make a difference. Making someone feel useful who generally doesn't, is an incredible feeling." - Matt
"Making a homeless person feel integrated back into society is extremely rewarding. I started the conversation classes with a homeless person who was allocated to me by Alessandra and Evon. I greeted the person like I would do a friend, which helped break down a barrier from the start. The classes were great!!! I needed to practice speaking Spanish and we conversed and laughed the whole 50 minutes. He even gave me some fabulous ideas for a speech I was to give in Spanish later that day!! I intend to continue the classes for sure!" - Sarah
"I'm having a great time learning Spanish! My language partner is very patient and dedicated to helping me improve. As a result, my Spanish level is quickly improving. What a fantastic project this is." - Christel
Facts about homeless people in Spain
- 90% are men
- 50% have children
- 45% cite economic reasons for homelessness
- 50% are looking for a job
- 54% are Spanish