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A thought, A homeless person, A Challenge

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago

How close are any of us to being homeless?

A couple of mortgage payments?

An accident at work?

Divorce?

A mental health problem that we have no control over or, the support to deal with it?

Horrific experiences while serving in the forces to protect us?

Saying yes to something we should have said no too...but it seemed like a good idea at the time?

A breakdown?

Dept?

It's getting cold now and, it's only going to get colder over the next couple of months.

Having a hot drink or food inside you might be the difference between surviving the night or, dying cold and lonely and without love.

Next time you are in town, take a couple of minutes to step outside your bubble and spare a thought for the homeless person you are walking towards...

Please, ask them if they would would like a drink or if they would like something to eat. And smile at them, treat them with respect, they are human, your smile, while you ask them if they would like sugar in their tea might be the warmest thing they have had that day! And, if you can spare a little more time, chat to them for a while

It will take minutes out of your day and a few quid out of your pocket and, it could just save someone's life!

Remember, they aren't letting us down by being on our streets, Our society is letting them down by not providing the correct support.

Thank you!

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By *opsy RogersWoman
over a year ago

London

Being homeless doesn’t always equate to being on the streets.

I was homeless with my two children in 1990 through no fault of my own and was given a one bed hostel room.

I used social housing and welfare support until I was able to leave that bit of our lives behind and support myself.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"How close are any of us to being homeless?

A couple of mortgage payments?

An accident at work?

Divorce?

A mental health problem that we have no control over or, the support to deal with it?

Horrific experiences while serving in the forces to protect us?

Saying yes to something we should have said no too...but it seemed like a good idea at the time?

A breakdown?

Dept?

It's getting cold now and, it's only going to get colder over the next couple of months.

Having a hot drink or food inside you might be the difference between surviving the night or, dying cold and lonely and without love.

Next time you are in town, take a couple of minutes to step outside your bubble and spare a thought for the homeless person you are walking towards...

Please, ask them if they would would like a drink or if they would like something to eat. And smile at them, treat them with respect, they are human, your smile, while you ask them if they would like sugar in their tea might be the warmest thing they have had that day! And, if you can spare a little more time, chat to them for a while

It will take minutes out of your day and a few quid out of your pocket and, it could just save someone's life!

Remember, they aren't letting us down by being on our streets, Our society is letting them down by not providing the correct support.

Thank you!

"

Every time I head into town, I see a young guy with a small dog sat outside M & S. I always give him money, a fiver usually. I hope and pray it helps to feed him but I do worry if he's a professional beggar? Next time I'll offer food and see what he says. He's very polite and grateful.

I count my blessings I have a roof over my head, a warm bed etc.

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By *iss_tressWoman
over a year ago

London

Sounds good and I may sound a cunt but I have myself and my family to concentrate on.

I've helped in the past and I'll sum it up: no good deed goes unpunished.

I'll continue to give to my chosen charity but I will no longer give money to beggers.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I would NEVER give money to a beggar/homeless person... but a hot drink or some food is always on offer.

Plenty of the homeless sat outside local petrol stations or even supermarkets asking for money, they are the ones that want booze, and that is not going to keep them warm on the cold nights.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I was once a matter of hours from being evicted amd would have ended up on the streets lost my job, council fucked up my hoysing benefit claim amd landlady was completely unsympathetic. As I was unemployed at the tone, single amd have no family to bail me out I don't dwell on what could have happened. I've also spent a fee months no fixed abode ans sleeping on different friend's sofas. We are all closer to being homeless than most of us realise.

I often chat with homeless and will buy them breakfast I'd I see people have clearly spent a night on the streets.

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By *heeky_subCouple
over a year ago

northampton

In Northampton, we raise money for the homeless shelter. January of this year, I slept rough to raise money for awareness.

Just that one night, I was prepared and had so many layers and it was still not enough and I could not wait to get back home into my bed.

If you can drop some jumpers that you don't wear and old (or new) walking boots, that can help. The shelter that is run has courses for the homeless can go on.

If you see someone on the street, just see if you can contact your local authority, to see if they are known to them. The LA can check to see if they are ok, and if they are aware of any facilities near them. Just remember the location.

I tend to get a warm drink and a meal deal in a zip bag.

Thank you op for your post, it's really thoughtful.

Xx

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Being homeless doesn’t always equate to being on the streets.

I was homeless with my two children in 1990 through no fault of my own and was given a one bed hostel room.

I used social housing and welfare support until I was able to leave that bit of our lives behind and support myself. "

Found myself in a similar situation many years ago...we are the lucky ones

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"How close are any of us to being homeless?

A couple of mortgage payments?

An accident at work?

Divorce?

A mental health problem that we have no control over or, the support to deal with it?

Horrific experiences while serving in the forces to protect us?

Saying yes to something we should have said no too...but it seemed like a good idea at the time?

A breakdown?

Dept?

It's getting cold now and, it's only going to get colder over the next couple of months.

Having a hot drink or food inside you might be the difference between surviving the night or, dying cold and lonely and without love.

Next time you are in town, take a couple of minutes to step outside your bubble and spare a thought for the homeless person you are walking towards...

Please, ask them if they would would like a drink or if they would like something to eat. And smile at them, treat them with respect, they are human, your smile, while you ask them if they would like sugar in their tea might be the warmest thing they have had that day! And, if you can spare a little more time, chat to them for a while

It will take minutes out of your day and a few quid out of your pocket and, it could just save someone's life!

Remember, they aren't letting us down by being on our streets, Our society is letting them down by not providing the correct support.

Thank you!

Every time I head into town, I see a young guy with a small dog sat outside M & S. I always give him money, a fiver usually. I hope and pray it helps to feed him but I do worry if he's a professional beggar? Next time I'll offer food and see what he says. He's very polite and grateful.

I count my blessings I have a roof over my head, a warm bed etc. "

My advise would be never to give money but some may argue. Personally, I not into feeding a drug or alcohol problem or giving my hard earned money to beggars.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

There was a professional one at the Garden or Remembrance, London at the weekend telling people his father fought in the war to the tourists and was getting quite a bit of money.

I don't mind helping people but will do it via a charity.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I always pop into McDonald's and buy a few burgers and give them to the homeless people, get dog treats as well if they have a dog. Only costs a few quid.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Sounds good and I may sound a cunt but I have myself and my family to concentrate on.

I've helped in the past and I'll sum it up: no good deed goes unpunished.

I'll continue to give to my chosen charity but I will no longer give money to beggers.

"

I respect that. Beggars and homeless people are two different things and it's hard to tell which is which sometimes.

You have a chosen charity...there are a lot better off that give and do nothing!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I often get those in problems a burger meal, better than money as I too am sure it would go on drink or drugs.

a hot meal is best, they are human after all and it could be us in an instant,

karma

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I was once a matter of hours from being evicted amd would have ended up on the streets lost my job, council fucked up my hoysing benefit claim amd landlady was completely unsympathetic. As I was unemployed at the tone, single amd have no family to bail me out I don't dwell on what could have happened. I've also spent a fee months no fixed abode ans sleeping on different friend's sofas. We are all closer to being homeless than most of us realise.

I often chat with homeless and will buy them breakfast I'd I see people have clearly spent a night on the streets. "

Good man

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By *sGivesWoodWoman
over a year ago

ST. AUSTELL, CORNWALL


"Being homeless doesn’t always equate to being on the streets.

I was homeless with my two children in 1990 through no fault of my own and was given a one bed hostel room.

I used social housing and welfare support until I was able to leave that bit of our lives behind and support myself. "
well said I was the same.

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By *ust PeachyWoman
over a year ago

Prestonish


"How close are any of us to being homeless?

A couple of mortgage payments?

An accident at work?

Divorce?

A mental health problem that we have no control over or, the support to deal with it?

Horrific experiences while serving in the forces to protect us?

Saying yes to something we should have said no too...but it seemed like a good idea at the time?

A breakdown?

Dept?

It's getting cold now and, it's only going to get colder over the next couple of months.

Having a hot drink or food inside you might be the difference between surviving the night or, dying cold and lonely and without love.

Next time you are in town, take a couple of minutes to step outside your bubble and spare a thought for the homeless person you are walking towards...

Please, ask them if they would would like a drink or if they would like something to eat. And smile at them, treat them with respect, they are human, your smile, while you ask them if they would like sugar in their tea might be the warmest thing they have had that day! And, if you can spare a little more time, chat to them for a while

It will take minutes out of your day and a few quid out of your pocket and, it could just save someone's life!

Remember, they aren't letting us down by being on our streets, Our society is letting them down by not providing the correct support.

Thank you!

"

Don’t have a great deal of spare cash myself but I work in the town centre. Most days I nip in to the pound bakery, get a bag of doughnuts, sausage rolls etc and get one to the homeless guys I pass. I know some of them pretty well now. They’re all different people with different stories.

X

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Through my work I speak with the homeless and in need a lot, I regularly get given a free coffee from a well known fast food outlet to keep myself going through night shifts and I always build up the stickers and keep the cards for this time of year to pass on to those who need a hot drink.

I’m afraid I see the rough with the smooth and I see these humans through tainted glasses due to the work I do and so I will never pass on money but food, drinks and a blanket yes every time I can, I would rather share or pass over my dinner to those with less than me as I have all I need to survive Andy missing one meal here and there means nothing to me but can mean the world to them. It also gains their respect when I have to deal with them when desperation has got the better of them and they have taken to criminality to survive.

So please if you are passing someone who looks like they are struggling give them a smile if you can stop and say hello and hear their stories and maybe if your able buy them something to get them through the next 24hrs or more.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"In Northampton, we raise money for the homeless shelter. January of this year, I slept rough to raise money for awareness.

Just that one night, I was prepared and had so many layers and it was still not enough and I could not wait to get back home into my bed.

If you can drop some jumpers that you don't wear and old (or new) walking boots, that can help. The shelter that is run has courses for the homeless can go on.

If you see someone on the street, just see if you can contact your local authority, to see if they are known to them. The LA can check to see if they are ok, and if they are aware of any facilities near them. Just remember the location.

I tend to get a warm drink and a meal deal in a zip bag.

Thank you op for your post, it's really thoughtful.

Xx"

It's not just the cold...it's scary!

If the cold doesn't keep them awake the fear of being beaten up does.

I hope the post will provoke more than just thought. If some one gets a hot drink and a meal today because someone read this it would be great. x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

As a guy who spent time homeless after leaving the army in my 20s I can truthfully tell you that professional beggars are rare indeed. I never met one, NOT ONE!

I begged and I sold Big Issue and I worked on farms picking crops etc.

I live a good life today and have got my shit together with the love of a good woman. I'm one of the lucky ones!

Life is hard especially on the streets.

Personally I give money to most beggars and I don't give a shit if it is spent on drugs / booze.

To those who have never spent a few nights on the streets you simply cannot understand how stressful and difficult it truly is. If drugs / alcohol ease a persons pain / suffering then so be it.

Compassion is sometimes accepting that the kindest thing is to allow a person to make their own choices whether we like it or not!

One last thing - You'd probably be shocked at just how many ex service people are living on the streets with drug / alcohol problems. If you think the State truly provides for all of its so called Heroes then think again. You would be wrong, very wrong!

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"There was a professional one at the Garden or Remembrance, London at the weekend telling people his father fought in the war to the tourists and was getting quite a bit of money.

I don't mind helping people but will do it via a charity. "

That would annoy me too! But at least you do something

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"There was a professional one at the Garden or Remembrance, London at the weekend telling people his father fought in the war to the tourists and was getting quite a bit of money.

I don't mind helping people but will do it via a charity. "

Yes there are quite a few of drug users amongst the homeless and to be honest I can understand why they become one.

Can you imagine something happening and you find yourself homeless? I think taking alcohol or drugs to dumb down on a low point in your life would be very tempting.

I know this because it happened to me..but fortunately it worked in the opposite way for me whereby I stopped my already drink habit.

But I can emphasise with the former as it is a really tormenting time for them.

Charities? I'm not too sure on! getting the help to the people who really need it...they do seem to look after themselves first and the client is way down the pecking order imo.

So I tend not to judge the homeless too hastily

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By *teveanddebsCouple
over a year ago

Norwich

If anyone wants to help Crisis run shelters over the Xmas period and are always looking for volunteers.

From there website:

Crisis at Christmas is a unique volunteer effort that provides immediate help for homeless people at a critical time of year. By volunteering with Crisis this Christmas you can make a real difference to people experiencing homelessness. Applications are open for London, with other regions opening shortly.

Where?

London

Newcastle

Edinburgh

Birmingham

Coventry

Message me for more details.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"As a guy who spent time homeless after leaving the army in my 20s I can truthfully tell you that professional beggars are rare indeed. I never met one, NOT ONE!

I begged and I sold Big Issue and I worked on farms picking crops etc.

I live a good life today and have got my shit together with the love of a good woman. I'm one of the lucky ones!

Life is hard especially on the streets.

Personally I give money to most beggars and I don't give a shit if it is spent on drugs / booze.

To those who have never spent a few nights on the streets you simply cannot understand how stressful and difficult it truly is. If drugs / alcohol ease a persons pain / suffering then so be it.

Compassion is sometimes accepting that the kindest thing is to allow a person to make their own choices whether we like it or not!

One last thing - You'd probably be shocked at just how many ex service people are living on the streets with drug / alcohol problems. If you think the State truly provides for all of its so called Heroes then think again. You would be wrong, very wrong!

"

Thank you for your input and your perspective. I hope lots of people read this and that it makes difference to the way people look at the homeless.

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By *atcherwankerMan
over a year ago

Birmingham


"As a guy who spent time homeless after leaving the army in my 20s I can truthfully tell you that professional beggars are rare indeed. I never met one, NOT ONE!

I begged and I sold Big Issue and I worked on farms picking crops etc.

I live a good life today and have got my shit together with the love of a good woman. I'm one of the lucky ones!

Life is hard especially on the streets.

Personally I give money to most beggars and I don't give a shit if it is spent on drugs / booze.

To those who have never spent a few nights on the streets you simply cannot understand how stressful and difficult it truly is. If drugs / alcohol ease a persons pain / suffering then so be it.

Compassion is sometimes accepting that the kindest thing is to allow a person to make their own choices whether we like it or not!

One last thing - You'd probably be shocked at just how many ex service people are living on the streets with drug / alcohol problems. If you think the State truly provides for all of its so called Heroes then think again. You would be wrong, very wrong!

"

I'm with this chap tbh. I'm not going to begrudge a homeless dude a can of cider or a bit of smack. Poor fucker sleeps in a doorway in the pissing rain, if that was me you can bet your arse I'd want to do just about anything to forget my troubles for a few minutes.

You're absolutely spot on about the disproportionate number of ex squaddies sleeping rough. And the people screaming about "scroungers" and "junkies" and "scum" are the exact same ones that have Help For Heroes stickers in their car windows and take to social media in a furious frenzy if someone on tv dares to not wear a poppy between September and December.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"If anyone wants to help Crisis run shelters over the Xmas period and are always looking for volunteers.

From there website:

Crisis at Christmas is a unique volunteer effort that provides immediate help for homeless people at a critical time of year. By volunteering with Crisis this Christmas you can make a real difference to people experiencing homelessness. Applications are open for London, with other regions opening shortly.

Where?

London

Newcastle

Edinburgh

Birmingham

Coventry

Message me for more details."

Thank you Steve and Debs, I hope this post generates some volunteers!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

i pay for a hotel room every year for two nights over Christmas for a homeless person to stay. My family club together to buy the person a couple of changes of clothing. In the room me out lots of food i.e. Snacks, sweets, fizzy drinks etc. This is a thing I have done for the past three or four years now.

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By *teveanddebsCouple
over a year ago

Norwich


"i pay for a hotel room every year for two nights over Christmas for a homeless person to stay. My family club together to buy the person a couple of changes of clothing. In the room me out lots of food i.e. Snacks, sweets, fizzy drinks etc. This is a thing I have done for the past three or four years now. "

That is a really lovely thing to do

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Looks like I'm going to be homeless at Christmas! Can't say I'm looking forward to it, I'll be sleeping in my van for a few months, whilst I try and save enough money for a deposit and a months rent, it's so cruel how the law works against fathers!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

The problem with drink and drugs is it makes the situation tolerable. At the same time as making escape from the situation impossible.

Give food, clothing, soap, and most importantly hope. If you have cash to give, give it to those who provide shelter, not those who will use it to prolong their suffering.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"As a guy who spent time homeless after leaving the army in my 20s I can truthfully tell you that professional beggars are rare indeed. I never met one, NOT ONE!

I begged and I sold Big Issue and I worked on farms picking crops etc.

I live a good life today and have got my shit together with the love of a good woman. I'm one of the lucky ones!

Life is hard especially on the streets.

Personally I give money to most beggars and I don't give a shit if it is spent on drugs / booze.

To those who have never spent a few nights on the streets you simply cannot understand how stressful and difficult it truly is. If drugs / alcohol ease a persons pain / suffering then so be it.

Compassion is sometimes accepting that the kindest thing is to allow a person to make their own choices whether we like it or not!

One last thing - You'd probably be shocked at just how many ex service people are living on the streets with drug / alcohol problems. If you think the State truly provides for all of its so called Heroes then think again. You would be wrong, very wrong!

I'm with this chap tbh. I'm not going to begrudge a homeless dude a can of cider or a bit of smack. Poor fucker sleeps in a doorway in the pissing rain, if that was me you can bet your arse I'd want to do just about anything to forget my troubles for a few minutes.

You're absolutely spot on about the disproportionate number of ex squaddies sleeping rough. And the people screaming about "scroungers" and "junkies" and "scum" are the exact same ones that have Help For Heroes stickers in their car windows and take to social media in a furious frenzy if someone on tv dares to not wear a poppy between September and December. "

I know it's a controversial thought but, help for heroes shouldn't even exist!

Comprehensive after care provided by the government should be part of the package.

The government employ people to go into the worst working conditions that most of us couldn't imagine in our worst nightmares. And when their minds and bodies are fucked they are dumped onto charities.

Help for heroes shouldn't exist but as the government is falling short...

I hope what you have written changes some opinions

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"i pay for a hotel room every year for two nights over Christmas for a homeless person to stay. My family club together to buy the person a couple of changes of clothing. In the room me out lots of food i.e. Snacks, sweets, fizzy drinks etc. This is a thing I have done for the past three or four years now. "

That is a really nice thing to do

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By *litterbabeWoman
over a year ago

hiding from cock pics

I believe that is a coat drive in London this week. If you have any spare coats you can drop them off at various stations and they will be distributed to the people who need them.

I will be also donating to Crisis this Christmas, they particularly are in need of socks and underwear, next time you go to the shops why not buy an extra pack of socks and underwear and donate them.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Looks like I'm going to be homeless at Christmas! Can't say I'm looking forward to it, I'll be sleeping in my van for a few months, whilst I try and save enough money for a deposit and a months rent, it's so cruel how the law works against fathers!"

I hope something turns up so that doesn't happen to you. There are a few examples posted here from people that have been in similar situations, my self included. Stay strong and stay focused, you'll get out soon. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I believe that is a coat drive in London this week. If you have any spare coats you can drop them off at various stations and they will be distributed to the people who need them.

I will be also donating to Crisis this Christmas, they particularly are in need of socks and underwear, next time you go to the shops why not buy an extra pack of socks and underwear and donate them."

Excellent idea

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By *teveanddebsCouple
over a year ago

Norwich


"I believe that is a coat drive in London this week. If you have any spare coats you can drop them off at various stations and they will be distributed to the people who need them.

I will be also donating to Crisis this Christmas, they particularly are in need of socks and underwear, next time you go to the shops why not buy an extra pack of socks and underwear and donate them."

That's fantastic

If you can spare the time why not come along and do a few shifts?

The afterparty is great

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By *ackDMissMorganCouple
over a year ago

Halifax

I already do, they are people too who are down on their luck.it must be horrible and so scary to be on the streets on your own and this time of year makes it feel even worse.

I've heard alot of bad attitudes towards the homeless and it makes me angry and v sad.

Nobody would choose that life and it could be any of us after redundancy,bereavement etc.

We should treat everyone with a bit of kindness as none of us know what they have been through or are going through.

Miss

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By *atcherwankerMan
over a year ago

Birmingham


"

I know it's a controversial thought but, help for heroes shouldn't even exist!

Comprehensive after care provided by the government should be part of the package.

The government employ people to go into the worst working conditions that most of us couldn't imagine in our worst nightmares. And when their minds and bodies are fucked they are dumped onto charities.

Help for heroes shouldn't exist but as the government is falling short...

I hope what you have written changes some opinions "

I absolutely couldn't agree more with this. At the risk of going too political on this and veering away from the social issues you're highlighting, I'd hazard an educated guess that the most vigorous supporters of HfH are the very same people who consistently vote for a government that keeps making huge cuts to those very Heroes they're outspoken about Helping.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

We were out for our 5 year olds birthday last year he asked if we could have a subway before we went to an indoor kids playgroud. So walking to subway though town we passed a homeless man sat on the floor looking pretty rough my little boy then asked me "dad why is that man sat on the floor in the cold" i explained to him about being homeless my little boy went very quiet. We sat down to start eating lunch and my son said "dad i dont want to eat it, im giving it to that man" i told my son thats very kind but you have to eat your dinner he then told me "dad i have some birthday money can i buy the man a subway" so after we had eaten my son got a sub and a drink went straight to to homeless guy said hi had a little chat handed him the food an drink the guy looked so happy and i couldnt have been more proud of my little boy.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"How close are any of us to being homeless?

A couple of mortgage payments?

An accident at work?

Divorce?

A mental health problem that we have no control over or, the support to deal with it?

Horrific experiences while serving in the forces to protect us?

Saying yes to something we should have said no too...but it seemed like a good idea at the time?

A breakdown?

Dept?

It's getting cold now and, it's only going to get colder over the next couple of months.

Having a hot drink or food inside you might be the difference between surviving the night or, dying cold and lonely and without love.

Next time you are in town, take a couple of minutes to step outside your bubble and spare a thought for the homeless person you are walking towards...

Please, ask them if they would would like a drink or if they would like something to eat. And smile at them, treat them with respect, they are human, your smile, while you ask them if they would like sugar in their tea might be the warmest thing they have had that day! And, if you can spare a little more time, chat to them for a while

It will take minutes out of your day and a few quid out of your pocket and, it could just save someone's life!

Remember, they aren't letting us down by being on our streets, Our society is letting them down by not providing the correct support.

Thank you!

"
so damned true

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"

I know it's a controversial thought but, help for heroes shouldn't even exist!

Comprehensive after care provided by the government should be part of the package.

The government employ people to go into the worst working conditions that most of us couldn't imagine in our worst nightmares. And when their minds and bodies are fucked they are dumped onto charities.

Help for heroes shouldn't exist but as the government is falling short...

I hope what you have written changes some opinions

I absolutely couldn't agree more with this. At the risk of going too political on this and veering away from the social issues you're highlighting, I'd hazard an educated guess that the most vigorous supporters of HfH are the very same people who consistently vote for a government that keeps making huge cuts to those very Heroes they're outspoken about Helping. "

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"We were out for our 5 year olds birthday last year he asked if we could have a subway before we went to an indoor kids playgroud. So walking to subway though town we passed a homeless man sat on the floor looking pretty rough my little boy then asked me "dad why is that man sat on the floor in the cold" i explained to him about being homeless my little boy went very quiet. We sat down to start eating lunch and my son said "dad i dont want to eat it, im giving it to that man" i told my son thats very kind but you have to eat your dinner he then told me "dad i have some birthday money can i buy the man a subway" so after we had eaten my son got a sub and a drink went straight to to homeless guy said hi had a little chat handed him the food an drink the guy looked so happy and i couldnt have been more proud of my little boy."

Heart melting moments! My 13 year old did the same a couple of weeks ago with the last of his birthday money. One of the things that inspired me to post this.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Sounds good and I may sound a cunt but I have myself and my family to concentrate on.

I've helped in the past and I'll sum it up: no good deed goes unpunished.

I'll continue to give to my chosen charity but I will no longer give money to beggers.

"

Homeless people aren't beggars. They live on the streets. Beggars are out during the day begging for money and go home at night.

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By *atcherwankerMan
over a year ago

Birmingham


"We were out for our 5 year olds birthday last year he asked if we could have a subway before we went to an indoor kids playgroud. So walking to subway though town we passed a homeless man sat on the floor looking pretty rough my little boy then asked me "dad why is that man sat on the floor in the cold" i explained to him about being homeless my little boy went very quiet. We sat down to start eating lunch and my son said "dad i dont want to eat it, im giving it to that man" i told my son thats very kind but you have to eat your dinner he then told me "dad i have some birthday money can i buy the man a subway" so after we had eaten my son got a sub and a drink went straight to to homeless guy said hi had a little chat handed him the food an drink the guy looked so happy and i couldnt have been more proud of my little boy."

This made me well up a little bit, you fucker. Give the kid a high five from me.

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By *lexa999Woman
over a year ago

Milton Keynes

I will be starting my second year volunteering at a winter night shelter in my home town, very soon. It's quite a massive operation as venues across the town take in 'homeless guests' for a warm, safe bed for the night plus a hot meal and cooked breakfast. Sadly as its mainly a self funding charity it can only cover this for a few months of the year for limited numbers of guests. But being a part of it, I feel that every little help.

There's never enough room for all who need it, there are so many vulnerable people out there that slip through the net, where local councils should be providing more assistance. Especially those deemed invisible in their eyes, particularly older gentlemen or refugees.

I am not someone who gives money but will always offer a friendly smile, greeting and food to those I see on the streets.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"We were out for our 5 year olds birthday last year he asked if we could have a subway before we went to an indoor kids playgroud. So walking to subway though town we passed a homeless man sat on the floor looking pretty rough my little boy then asked me "dad why is that man sat on the floor in the cold" i explained to him about being homeless my little boy went very quiet. We sat down to start eating lunch and my son said "dad i dont want to eat it, im giving it to that man" i told my son thats very kind but you have to eat your dinner he then told me "dad i have some birthday money can i buy the man a subway" so after we had eaten my son got a sub and a drink went straight to to homeless guy said hi had a little chat handed him the food an drink the guy looked so happy and i couldnt have been more proud of my little boy."

What a lovely child your raising.

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By *litterbabeWoman
over a year ago

hiding from cock pics

My teenage, quite cool, son came home with no trainers on a couple of months ago.

He had seen a homeless man who had no shoes and given him the shoes off his feet. My son had then come home on the train with no shoes on. Sadly for my son he actually got the wrong train and ended up having to go all the way into London and back home with no shoes.

But he still is very happy that he did the right thing. I'm very proud of him when he does stuff like that.

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By *atcherwankerMan
over a year ago

Birmingham

As an afterthought, for those who don't like to give cash and/or are skint themselves and can't spare the funds for a sarnie or a hot drink, there's a phone app called "Street Link" that you can use to put rough sleepers in touch with local facilities. (shelters, mental health centres, etc)

It's quite simple to use, just give the location and a brief description of the rough sleeper and they send someone out to make contact with them. If you want to help but don't know how, it's quite a handy way to do your bit.

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By *LCCCouple
over a year ago

Cambridge


"As a guy who spent time homeless after leaving the army in my 20s I can truthfully tell you that professional beggars are rare indeed. I never met one, NOT ONE!

I begged and I sold Big Issue and I worked on farms picking crops etc.

I live a good life today and have got my shit together with the love of a good woman. I'm one of the lucky ones!

Life is hard especially on the streets.

Personally I give money to most beggars and I don't give a shit if it is spent on drugs / booze.

To those who have never spent a few nights on the streets you simply cannot understand how stressful and difficult it truly is. If drugs / alcohol ease a persons pain / suffering then so be it.

Compassion is sometimes accepting that the kindest thing is to allow a person to make their own choices whether we like it or not!

One last thing - You'd probably be shocked at just how many ex service people are living on the streets with drug / alcohol problems. If you think the State truly provides for all of its so called Heroes then think again. You would be wrong, very wrong!

"

The state doesn't provide for homeless veterans, but plenty of charities do with the huge support they get from the British public. There is no need for any veteran to be homeless with support from the likes of The Royal British Legion, SSAFA, Haig Homes, Stoll, Amicus Trust and many many others. This is a fantastic extra layer of support that is not available to civilians.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"i pay for a hotel room every year for two nights over Christmas for a homeless person to stay. My family club together to buy the person a couple of changes of clothing. In the room me out lots of food i.e. Snacks, sweets, fizzy drinks etc. This is a thing I have done for the past three or four years now. "

an amazing touch

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By *litterbabeWoman
over a year ago

hiding from cock pics


"As an afterthought, for those who don't like to give cash and/or are skint themselves and can't spare the funds for a sarnie or a hot drink, there's a phone app called "Street Link" that you can use to put rough sleepers in touch with local facilities. (shelters, mental health centres, etc)

It's quite simple to use, just give the location and a brief description of the rough sleeper and they send someone out to make contact with them. If you want to help but don't know how, it's quite a handy way to do your bit."

Great idea. I will get that now

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"We were out for our 5 year olds birthday last year he asked if we could have a subway before we went to an indoor kids playgroud. So walking to subway though town we passed a homeless man sat on the floor looking pretty rough my little boy then asked me "dad why is that man sat on the floor in the cold" i explained to him about being homeless my little boy went very quiet. We sat down to start eating lunch and my son said "dad i dont want to eat it, im giving it to that man" i told my son thats very kind but you have to eat your dinner he then told me "dad i have some birthday money can i buy the man a subway" so after we had eaten my son got a sub and a drink went straight to to homeless guy said hi had a little chat handed him the food an drink the guy looked so happy and i couldnt have been more proud of my little boy."

your son is so generous, but please tell me you didnt take any of his birthday money to buy it

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

No i was so proud of him we paid for it.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I usually take a seat, get to know the person. Invest some time into finding out how long they’ve been homeless etc. And make sure they know all of the local places where they can get food, clothes and haircuts. If they don’t we take a walk around so they know where they can get all of the essential things they need.

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By *estless nativeMan
over a year ago

near Glasgow

We have an excellent charity up here called "social bite" who do some fantastic work with/for homeless people.

Among their efforts this year is a massive sleepout event in a few weeks (9000 people, I think ) in Princes St Gardens, they aim to raise £4m from it.

They will also have their annual xmas meal appeal, last year they recieved enough donations to provide in the region of 75000 meals.

And they are also building a small homes village in Edinburgh, as part of a project to help homeless people get their lives back on track.

Of course they could never do any of this without donations from and the support of the public.

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By *ransGuyTV/TS
over a year ago

Cardiff

Unfortunately there are loads of professional beggers in my local town. They are well known, have their usual territories and warm homes to go back to. They have been offered help but that would mean getting off the drugs and curbing their drinking, and they don't want that. You can't force help on people who don't want it.

The ones who genuinely want help are too embarrassed to beg or are forced out by the professionals. What's one of the easy ways to tell? Most of the time the professionals kick of if you offer them anything other than money.

Although I know those at the top get a cut, I give to charity instead. There are also sometimes places in town that do free give and takes, they are always greatful for donations.

Although I am running out of things to donate I do the rounds of the charity shops, at least then if I can find what I need then the money is going to charity. At least then there is a real chance it will go to those who really need it to get their life back on track not to those who will continue to hound people for money just to get their next fix.

Ok so not all beggers are like this, but when it's hard to tell the difference and you are not made of money yourself, you do what you can to make sure what you can do is not wasted.

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By *wisted2000Woman
over a year ago

under my rock cleethorpes

We have a lot of homeless that knock about where I work, we tend to make them a cuppa and give them something to eat if they’re hungry, can I recommend if you’re gonna buy them good make it something healthy like fruit, I’m told they’re always given sandwich’s and sausage rolls, maybe even make up a hot dinner and package it while warm, remember home cooked isn’t something you can have if you have no home and a hot meal is always better than a cold sandwich on a cold night

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I remember offering some of my Jenkins pasties to a homeless person and he took the bag and threw them at me.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

If they have a dog I always buy treats for them and even brought a dog coat. We have a guy in Barnstaple who got a pigeon for a companion and he told me I stay alive for him. Very sweet man.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I remember offering some of my Jenkins pasties to a homeless person and he took the bag and threw them at me. "

I've never had that happen to me, I'm sure it was an exception rather than the rule. Remember a lot of these people have mental health issues and drug and alcohol problems.

Don't let your one bad experience put you off being the person you obviously are.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"How close are any of us to being homeless?

A couple of mortgage payments?

An accident at work?

Divorce?

A mental health problem that we have no control over or, the support to deal with it?

Horrific experiences while serving in the forces to protect us?

Saying yes to something we should have said no too...but it seemed like a good idea at the time?

A breakdown?

Dept?

It's getting cold now and, it's only going to get colder over the next couple of months.

Having a hot drink or food inside you might be the difference between surviving the night or, dying cold and lonely and without love.

Next time you are in town, take a couple of minutes to step outside your bubble and spare a thought for the homeless person you are walking towards...

Please, ask them if they would would like a drink or if they would like something to eat. And smile at them, treat them with respect, they are human, your smile, while you ask them if they would like sugar in their tea might be the warmest thing they have had that day! And, if you can spare a little more time, chat to them for a while

It will take minutes out of your day and a few quid out of your pocket and, it could just save someone's life!

Remember, they aren't letting us down by being on our streets, Our society is letting them down by not providing the correct support.

Thank you!

"

I agree with what you say, the last time I bought a homeless person hot food and drink. I got told that's not what they wanted, so now I am a little reluctant to give them things.

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By *evil_u_knowMan
over a year ago

city

The government want us to be homeless.

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By *iss_tressWoman
over a year ago

London


"Unfortunately there are loads of professional beggers in my local town. They are well known, have their usual territories and warm homes to go back to. They have been offered help but that would mean getting off the drugs and curbing their drinking, and they don't want that. You can't force help on people who don't want it.

The ones who genuinely want help are too embarrassed to beg or are forced out by the professionals. What's one of the easy ways to tell? Most of the time the professionals kick of if you offer them anything other than money.

Although I know those at the top get a cut, I give to charity instead. There are also sometimes places in town that do free give and takes, they are always greatful for donations.

Although I am running out of things to donate I do the rounds of the charity shops, at least then if I can find what I need then the money is going to charity. At least then there is a real chance it will go to those who really need it to get their life back on track not to those who will continue to hound people for money just to get their next fix.

Ok so not all beggers are like this, but when it's hard to tell the difference and you are not made of money yourself, you do what you can to make sure what you can do is not wasted."

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By *lanemikeMan
over a year ago

Bolton


"The government want us to be homeless."

Oh really...why?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

At my daughters school she has asked that they collect stuff to distribute this winter. Old coats.. blankets and ladies toiletries. They are making waterproof bags to put little collections in.

She has done it after a trip to London during the summer and she was shocked to see so many homeless as living where we do its rare you ever see anyone on the street.... so guess it came as a shock once in London

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

My son and I both stop talk and give money to homeless people and food or drink. It was him who started me doing it.

Often they may have drug or alcohol problems or mental health issues sometimes it's economics or family break ups too.

Most have been failed by the system some may be professional beggars. But I would rather risk giving a few quid to a scam artist than assume that all fall into that category.

Don't just give them money or food even if it's only for a few minutes stop and talk to them. It may be the only direct human contact they may have, and listening to their story is often beyond harrowing.

We are all only a step or two away from being in their shoes.

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By *evil_u_knowMan
over a year ago

city


"The government want us to be homeless.

Oh really...why?"

It helps create cheaper workers, and it washes away any local pride by disrupting the community.

Why do you think people in the sick thread are all saying they have to work when sick? They are afraid of being homeless.

Houses full of 20 people from abroad, pushing up rent prices so the local single guy or girl can not compete. Pushing the locals out of the area. Not building enough houses but accepting more people into the country. Lots of houses sitting empty.

If you're an honest person not running any scams, you're gonna need to find a partner. Someone who can work to share the bills. You're both gonna spend your entire lives working, every year afraid to take the sick days off, and every year just living on the edge.

If the government didnt want you to be living like this, you wouldnt.

It's all to do with big business and cheap labour.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"The government want us to be homeless.

Oh really...why?

It helps create cheaper workers, and it washes away any local pride by disrupting the community.

Why do you think people in the sick thread are all saying they have to work when sick? They are afraid of being homeless.

Houses full of 20 people from abroad, pushing up rent prices so the local single guy or girl can not compete. Pushing the locals out of the area. Not building enough houses but accepting more people into the country. Lots of houses sitting empty.

If you're an honest person not running any scams, you're gonna need to find a partner. Someone who can work to share the bills. You're both gonna spend your entire lives working, every year afraid to take the sick days off, and every year just living on the edge.

If the government didnt want you to be living like this, you wouldnt.

It's all to do with big business and cheap labour."

Meanwhile back on planet earth

It's an interesting rant but I doubt many will agree with you including the much derided governments of all descriptions which surprisingly are composed of people; some of whom might even be there to look after the interests of those who elected them.

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By *teveanddebsCouple
over a year ago

Norwich


"some of whom might even be there to look after the interests of those who elected them.

"

If only .................

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By *ungmagic10Man
over a year ago

Northampton

I help when I can, and that's the best I can do. I do have a family to care for as well .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I was always taught .... Never look down on someone unless you are helping them up.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I thought people only helped the homeless so they could take photos and videos and get 'likes' on the old BookFace?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I thought people only helped the homeless so they could take photos and videos and get 'likes' on the old BookFace? "

Only if those people actually use facebook ! One of the main reasons ive never signed up for it is the self righteous sort who do that type of thing on there.

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By *urvymamaWoman
over a year ago

Doncaster

Did it Friday night bought the gent a wa meal and a cuppa and gave him all my McDonald's loyalty coffee cards so he could get 6 more hot drinks as and when he needed them

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By *litterbabeWoman
over a year ago

hiding from cock pics

A tiny extra thought when giving people on the streets food. It is always good to check before you buy it, if they have any dietary intolerances or or are vegetarian etc.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"A tiny extra thought when giving people on the streets food. It is always good to check before you buy it, if they have any dietary intolerances or or are vegetarian etc. "

Good point!

Don't do what a friend of mine did recently. They bought some one a milky coffee with out asking and were offended when the guy said he couldn't drink it. They thought that if he was cold, hungry and thirsty that he should just be grateful for anything he was offered!

Thank you to every one that has posted here and, thank you to every one that has just popped in for a read. Hopefully a lot more people have visited and read than those that have shared opinions and experiences.

Out of those visits, I hope some have found the post interesting and that it has provoked thought. Even better I hope it has inspired some to be a little more pro active and, how to go about it in the right way.

Perhaps I should have given this thread a title like "Fill my Pussy", Might have got even more readers!

Christmas is hurtling towards us. I don't have a religious bone in my body but, I embrace the spirit of Christmas. There is a lot of goodness and kindness in the air but also a lot of greed and selfishness. There is always an equal opposite!

Just remember those less fortunate in these cold months especially

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By *litterbabeWoman
over a year ago

hiding from cock pics

It was a really good read Op, and a nice idea to hopefully get people to help others a little bit at this cold time of year.

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By *hispers-40Woman
over a year ago

up the garden path

I put up a post a few days ago about good deeds and i left a story on there about how i got talking to a guy who was homeless and i took my coat off to give him homess people never ask for money Some times they just want some one to listen

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago

I remember reading your good deeds post. Although I didn't contribute, it was a heart warming read

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By *risky_MareWoman
over a year ago

...Up on the Downs

I wonder if vouchers for food/drink or clothing might be a safer way to go? It's difficult to know what people's most pressing needs are.

I may be naive but it astonishes me in this day and age why the hell the government can't just buy some bloody great buildings in each city centre and at least give everyone on the street a warm bed to sleep in, there aren't that many of them.

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By *hispers-40Woman
over a year ago

up the garden path


"I remember reading your good deeds post. Although I didn't contribute, it was a heart warming read "

thank you it was the least i could do im very thank full of what i have as i also was homless once no fault of my own but if everyone just took a few minutes of their time we could all make a difference and put a smile on someone's face even if its just for a few minutes

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By *elma and ShaggyCouple
over a year ago

Bedworth

On a local community faceache group there has been a lot of talk about homelessness recently, a lot of it derogatory. A man can often be seen in the town centre, some will buy him food etc but others have been saying he’s a junkie and only wants his next fix.

One guy in the group actually took some time to talk to the homeless man and got his story which he then posted in the community group.

After he posted someone offered the homeless man the use of his heated garage to sleep, he has been given clothing, blankets etc. Someone else has accompanied him to the jobcentrr and together they have applied for benefits for him. There is no help available to get him housed unfortunately so a just giving page has now been set up to raise funds for a deposit on a flat for him. In the meantime, he has somewhere warm to sleep and people helping him get a leg up.

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By *y Favorite PornstarCouple
over a year ago

Basingstoke

Well we have three types of people being discussed here:

- Homeless people. Yes i have sympathy for these people, the economy has stunk for 10 years now and many people have been feeling the squeeze. I'm not going to humblebrag about my personal acts of charity but they exist and are numerous.

- Beggars. I absolutely hate these people. They are simply people willing to sell their dignity for cash. No amount of money will ever help them, they often turn their nose up at food (although cigarettes are welcome) they have existed as long as humans have.

- Living on the streets. Now this is the complex one. Most are on some form of drug but actually i checked the stats and it wasn't as high as i initially assumed. Although i would say that i can spot a junkie a mile off and I've never seen a person on the streets of Reading that didn't have all the signs. About ~70% of them (99% in Reading) are people preoccupied with first world problems and drug addiction, they need a good slap. About ~30% have real mental health problems and military veterans are disproportionately represented in this group. Their situation is so complex and I'm not qualified to give a solution.

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