I volunteer with a homeless organisation based in Bolton and Manchester called Homeless Aid.

Homeless Aid UK isn't like the other homeless organisations in our local area. They are completely self funded and still provide evening street kitchens and/or breakfast services every day of the week.
Many of us look past the people sat outside our favourite places to shop and I am sure some of us are guilty of crossing the street when we see someone crouched at the side of the pavement with a sleeping bag. I've certainly been guilty of doing this myself in the past. But after spending time and making an effort to communicate with the homeless and people with poor lives and living conditions, I realised many got into this situation through no fault of their own.

Not every homeless person uses money for drugs and alcohol, and if they do, I say I don't blame them. Imagine having nowhere warm to go each night, perhaps no family, couch surfing for months, your health would be in decline, no money to feed yourself, one to turn to. You are going to grab any kind of release and comfort you can get.

We should not have people begging in 2018, locally or worldwide. We can't make an instant change-but we can reach out a hand to those who want the help and support.

As tomorrow is National Homeless Day, it would be great if we can raise some pennies to help provide the homeless with things on our organisation 'wish list'. This includes sleeping bags, thermals, coats, hats, scarves, gloves and essentials. It will also help to provide even more food and support as we approach the winter.

This may not be successful but if you have read to here then thank you! :)