This project came about in an organic way, as the three of us had similar ideas for the assignment, which we then were able to bring together and create something bigger than any of us could have imagined. We went into the beginning stages with the idea of creating posters as a way to easily and cheaply disseminate information regarding the so-called “homelessness crisis” in Reno. 

We all grew up in Reno, and are familiar with sights that might make some uncomfortable — groups of tents by the Truckee River and the railroad tracks, unhoused people using public libraries as a safe haven from the cruel Nevada winters, and the tell-tale behavior of those suffering from substance use disorders on the street. The reality is that this should be a call to action, not a reason to feel uncomfortable. The city of Reno has historically criminalized homelessness, and our culture in general tends to treat homelessness as a moral failing, rather than looking at the systemic issues that cause it. 

First and foremost, we wanted to go into this project with the right mindset. This isn’t about “solving homelessness,” or treating Reno’s unhoused population in an emotionally removed way, as a lack of compassion is common among those who have never been close to the issue. Our goal was simply to see the humanity around us and think about what we (with our limited resources) can do to help those on the streets. Posters have historically been used as affordable ways to quickly spread information. Of course, we have the internet now, but unhoused people don’t always have reliable internet access. We were lucky enough to receive a donation from a local print company, Reno Print Store, who printed our posters for free. 

The experience of hanging posters proved to be invaluable. We had the opportunity to talk directly to people experiencing homelessness while hanging them, with multiple unsheltered folks approaching us to ask what we were doing. This provided us with the opportunity to share information about our posters, and in one specific instance enabled us to help a pair of unsheltered young men. They approached us while hanging posters at a Karma Box, which was unfortunately empty. We were able to ask them what they needed and get them blankets and gloves before talking to them about shelters in the area, food resources, and their rights. This project enabled us to not only spread information about the options that unhoused people have, but to help some people stay warm in the middle of winter. This experience really solidified the feeling of community for us, and it is amazing to see what happens when people come together.