Request to Melburnian friends to watch out for homeless guy - Simon.

I first met Simon in 2008 - easily identifiable, has a large black dog for company, in mid 30s, auburn & short hair, a beard, track suit pants, medium height. Surviving on Collins Street.

He's always been very polite and honest - something about his character impressed itself upon me, stuck in a hard place but retaining etiquette and perception of others. He'd disappeared for a year, making me wonder if he'd survived, until I bumped into him on Sunday night, on Spring Street.

He will receive government housing in "August or October", but must make it through the winter. When he mentioned this to me, he seemed bitter and exhausted. He also added that he'd believe it when it happened. In 2009 he was near breaking point, and we used to talk, but his detached tone of voice disturbed me on Sunday. He lives under a bridge in North Melbourne. 2009 he was thankful for human contact. On Sunday night a new tone had emerged. Where he'd believed in help, now he was worn out by hoping for it. Now, so close to receiving an address (which means he can collect unemployment benefits, shower, look for work, etc.), he seems frustrated by the wait, and tired of depending on the patronage of others.

If you see him, buy him a meal, throw some dollars in his hat, or do something to help him get through winter. But do it well.

N.