Overview

• Paul, a well-known homeless man in Hannover, died of suspected organ failure after a life of hardship on the streets, with neighbors remembering his kindness and humor.
• Homeless individuals like Paul face significantly shorter life expectancies, often dying a decade earlier than the general population due to untreated illnesses and harsh living conditions.
• Efforts are made to provide dignified farewells for homeless individuals, including memorial services and burials in designated areas like the Friedwald or community-supported plots.
• Paul’s death underscores the physical and mental toll of homelessness, with common untreated conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and severe infections exacerbated by lack of access to care.
• Organizations and community members in Hannover and Dresden are reflecting on Paul’s life and advocating for better support systems for the homeless population.