In Koreatown, Los Angeles, the temperature is 82F (28C) with a little breeze, which is a welcome change from the neighborhood’s summertime highs of 38C. Nevertheless, as Ktown for All, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to the homeless, makes its rounds, people on the streets appear abnormally lethargic. In addition to checking in to see how the homeless are handling the heat, volunteers distribute meals, hygiene kits, water bottles, and the occasional tent.
At a bus stop, an old guy named Francis is hiding out with his possessions stacked high on the bench. He acknowledges that he is staying cool and takes the food, water, and wipes. Normally talkative and gregarious, he is subdued and responds with single words today.
Due to how hot the pavement gets, anyone who wind up falling asleep on it risks developing second- or third-degree burns. Ellert William
Sherin Varghese is head of outreach at Ktown for All on the weekends and in the evenings. “A big part of what we do is trying to build relationships within our community and let people feel seen and heard,” she says.
