Almira Masangcay — Homelessness in Toronto | 2020.ocadu.gd

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Almira Masangcay

Homelessness in Toronto

It is no surprise that homelessness is a growing issue in Toronto because we see it on the streets all the time. Homelessness is a complicated issue but some things can be done. In my research, I found that there is not much separation between ourselves and a homeless person. They have a story, a career, a family, friends, a life before they became homeless. But due to a series of circumstances, they ended up on the streets. Some people see the homeless as people who had never lived before as supposed to see them compassionately and understand their situations and stories. Therefore, this thesis project aims to create an awareness campaign that encourages respect and compassion towards these less vulnerable individuals. It challenges the audience to let go of their biases stigmatizing attitudes in favour of a more open-minded and humane understanding of the issue.

Publication

Social Justice

Social Practice

Augmented Reality

About the designer

Hello! I'm Almira. I have just completed my final year at OCAD U, majoring in Graphic Design. I like to make cool and creative designs that can communicate to a wide audience regardless of what medium I’m working in. I like to experiment and learn new things that hone my skill as a designer. My areas of focus include branding, poster design, information design and visualization, packaging, and editorial. I also enjoy digital and analog photography, as well as crafting.

Go-to bubble tea order?

Original Milk Tea

ACTIVITY BOOK
The overall intention of the book is not only to give us pieces of information about homelessness but also gives us awareness and experience about the struggle that a homeless person encounters daily. *See the video of the book at the bottom of the page.

THE POSTERS
The aim is to change the perceived idea regarding the beliefs and stereotypes of homelessness. By using metaphor as a means of communication, it avoids cliches and pursues a fresh and original voice for this issue.

*Install the ARTIVIVE app on your phone or iPad to hear more of their stories.

By adding a second layer, an Augmented Reality on the poster, it urges more the idea that there is a story behind every homeless person.

CARDS: HOW CAN I HELP?
The cards focus on how to help a homeless individual.

DONATION BOXES
Similarly to the posters, it also used metaphors. These boxes allow people to realize that homeless people are also human, they need the same care, food, clothes, shelter, etc. as all humans do. Each box specifies where the spare change is going to be to avoid stigmatizing attitudes.