Night Life

These photos are the result of hundreds late night hours on the streets of Brazil learning what life is truly like for some of societies most vulnerable.

While it is impossible to establish exactly how many children are living on the streets of Brazil at any given time, conservative estimates begin at three million and high estimates stretch to seven million. These individuals often work collecting trash or are forced into prostitution and trafficking. Thousands of families flock to the streets after dark where they wait in lines to receive what may be their only meal for the day, donated from NGOs that set up mobile feeding stations. Other groups bring art supplies and instruments building relationships and exit strategies. Poverty is deep rooted in the social fabric of Brazil where fevelas house large portions of the population. Many find the streets a “safer” alternative to the dangerous fevelas they grew up in. To ease their hunger pains, glue is commonly huffed as an appetite suppressor (caking the bottom of empty water bottles). In the midst of this brutal reality - these are some of the most beautiful, resilient, generous and strong individuals I have ever had the privilege to meet.