Uptown New Orleans Memories intertwined with a bank helping a homeless man.
Pic: Public Domain
A very belated "Thank You!" to the proprietors of the bank (I'm getting older ... can't remember da name!) that used to be located on the corner of S. Claiborne and S. Carrollton Aves. in my beloved hometown of "'Yatsville! (New Orleans)"
Back in the 80s when we lived in Uptown, I recall how caring the Bank folks there were for an elder, homeless gentleman, whom lived for awhile in a makeshift, cardboard living quarter right outside the institution's property. Law enforcement authorities befriended him and didn't hassle him, as he caused no trouble and was neat about his surroundings.
At times when going to a nearby K & B catercorner to the bank, I would bring the gentile, bearded fellow peanut-butter sandwiches; he told me that after being widowed, he had squandered his money.
I don't know the details, but suffice it to say that the bank somehow helped the senior lad, whom had apparently come upon some very difficult times, with a "signature loan," which helped him get on his feet, find reasonable housing, get connected with the local Council on Aging outreach and get some sorely needed grief counseling.
Who says that banks are only "'interest'-ed" in money???
A great story about helping someone get back on their feet and out of homelessness. I always wonder about that word, "squandered." Lately around here, pretty much sums up those people to go to Louisiana too often, thinking they're going to strike it rich at Lake Charles or other casinos, and end up squandering what savings they have for retirement, etc. Sad story.
Our church group rented the space above the bank where I kept my savings account I used the pay my college expenses, practically right on campus. It served as a lounge and retreat from campus activity between classes and evenings. We used to go there to watch Hullabaloo on the TV, the only one we had access to. Anyway, from time to time, students who are down and out housing often camped out up there in the bank didn't seem to mind. I do recall that one of our professors was a director, and perhaps part owner of that bank.
Pic: Public Domain
