Boston man helping homeless through photography

BOSTON — A local photographer is using his camera as a force for good.

Nick Cosky, of Newton, is trying to raise awareness about homelessness in Boston with a portrait book that not only gives the homeless "a face, name and story," but also helps provide much-needed accommodations.

As a photographer, Cosky is constantly running around Boston. He spends his free time all over the city, "trying to capture the skyline, sunsets, sunrises, and anything else that interests [him]." That "anything else" interesting has recently been homeless people across Boston.

The interest was sparked when one night, Cosky was complaining to himself about the cold while taking photos of the Citgo sign in Kenmore Square. He then noticed a homeless man sleeping on a bench, and realized how selfish he was to complain about the cold for that small period of time outside.

To create some positive change, Cosky began giving his own clothes, and the clothes of his friends and family, to people less fortunate. When he did so, he connected with the person, and noticed how a small conversation can be so important.

"They are grateful just to be acknowledged as a person," he said.

Cosky is now creating a portrait book of the homeless of Boston, and 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit the Pine Street Inn, which has temporary housing and helps find permanent housing for the homeless. Cosky will take photos, and his friend and writer Matteo Urella will tell their stories.

If you would like to help Cosky help Boston's homeless, you can donate new backpacks and socks for one week only, March 7–11 between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. at The Boston Dream Center. The center is located one block from South Station at 151 Pearl Street in Boston.

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You can track the project's progress via Cosky's Twitter, Instagram, and website.

HOW YOU CAN HELP NICK:

Where you moved by Nick's story? So were we! If you'd like to do something to help  -- you can! The clothes and essential items Nick offers are often turned down because there's nowhere to keep them. The Boston Dream Center, a community outreach organization for the homeless and urban poor, has graciously offered to collect new backpacks and new socks for Nick to give to the vulnerable and homeless he meets. You can drop-off new backpacks and men's and women's socks that are thick and sturdy for one week only, March 7 - 11 between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. at The Boston Dream Center, located one block from South Station at 151 Pearl St. Boston MA 02110.

Cox Media Group