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Comment by tgsovlerkhgsel | Hacker News Reader

Are there no libraries or homeless shelters where they could charge either a phone or a power bank?

This seems more like an art project than a practical solution.

Yes, at least here in Australia there are a lot of libraries, churches and other public places where charging is available. Rather than expecting those without homes to pedal for basic access to services, access to basic infrastructure like charging should be expanded – and dare I say, be bold and actually make housing available to all people.

Having to stay there while charging would still be a hurdle. Do they typically offer e.g. code-locked charging cabinets where you can leave a phone or power bank, or power bank swaps where they would lend (or give) away standardized power banks that could then be exchanged for full ones when empty?

What is the hurdle of staying in a library whilst charging your phone or power bank?

It's incompatible with getting other stuff done, like hiking to the gym for a shower then going to work then going to the food bank. Just because someone is homeless doesn't mean they don't have anything better to do than sit around for hours watching a number go up.

Sure, but everyone sacrifices time for necessity sometimes. In a library, you can sit and read for the 30-60 minutes you're there, use a computer, research whatever's important to you or take in some fiction to relax the high levels of stress you have. No different to people filling time commuting, picking up kids, waiting in line somewhere, etc.

I also would expect charging at the gym or work for those who have access would be a problem.

It’s definitely more of an attention grab than practical solution. Doesn’t invalidate it though.

Shelters in the UK have a pretty bad rap in some cities (including London) among the homeless.

Also yes, it’s an art project by an art student at CSM (an art college).

I understand why people don't want to stay there, but shelters could also provide "walk-in" services like swapping an empty power bank for a full one.

They could and/or should, but many shelters basically are night shelter only - you get kicked out in the morning.

There’s nowhere near enough drop in daytime places to charge a phone or access internet or get help with paperwork, etc.

there also a shortage of places that will let you open a mailbox/use the address to get postage.

You would be amazed at how much difference it makes being able to receive a letter at an address - it’s vital for a lot of services still.

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