Same City, Two Holidays.

In Chicago, the holidays are often viewed with a bright perspective. There are carolers on the streets, festive store windows, and jazz music is heard everywhere. However, for many, the holidays are spent in the freezing cold, with nothing but a cup full of change and a scrappy blanket. This collection of photos aims to show the two different sides of the holidays in Chicago.

Macy's storefront window

Carolers downtown

Street musicians playing "All I Want for Christmas is You"

Asado Coffee decorated for the holidays

"For me, the holidays are about Christ. The word Christmas is 'Christ' and 'mas.' I used to be a preacher, so Christmas is very important to me. It's a story of family, friends, and the celebration of Jesus. Christmas is about celebrating Jesus most importantly! Jesus!" 

*Mom did not want to be pictured*

"The holidays have always been very important to me. I remember as a kid opening presents under the tree on Christmas with my family. Now, the holidays are all about faith. The holidays bring out faith especially now that we goin' through some very tough times, me and my family.  We can't lose that faith, no no. "

"The holidays are great. Very merry. It's about spending time with your family and counting your blessings, no matter how small. Even out here, don't lose hope."

"The holiday's ain't nothin' special. What am I supposed to do out here? No one to go back to, it's a  tough time. I used to love the holidays but now they don't mean shit. "