‘Maria’ of Hoboken passes away; how can you really help the homeless?

HOBOKEN —She was a ubiquitous presence in Hoboken – a short, curly-haired, quiet woman who called herself “Maria” and often walked with her eyes to the ground. Sometimes she carried an umbrella in the summer, and she occasionally wore pajama bottoms in daytime.
In the last few years, she had heavy casts or gauze on her lower legs, seemingly never getting permanent treatment for what looked like a serious health issue. Some worried about her, but the situation continued.
Two weeks ago, she passed away, according to a friend – although the friend believes it was not due to the leg situation.
The friend did not know whether Maria had family, but believes she died alone.
Later this month, a countywide organization will hold a memorial service for the homeless.
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