"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are"
I organised a special event which took place on 7th December 2009 that not only brought a bit of warmth and TLC to some of the homeless of London, but gave all of those who took part a very humble experience. I gathered a group of six volunteers and also collected donations for this event. We then visited the streets of London equipped with tea, mince pies, wooly hats, gloves and scarfs. We offered these to the homeless and the reaction was very welcoming. I can only say that this was the most humbling experience of my life by far. The homeless are such nice people and we could all learn so much from them. The majority who my wife and I saw wouldn't take any items of clothing if they already had one the same. Even this guy who had a tatty old pair of gloves refused to take new ones because he already had a pair. He took a hat instead cos he didn't already have one. The gratitude they all showed was enormous as well. One guy enjoyed his mince pie so much and couldn't stop thanking us so we gave him a few more to enjoy. Another guy we saw started off a bit defensive and started telling us of his woes but with a very harsh tone. Then he asked us which organsation we were with and when we said we were doing this independently of any organisation, his body language and attitude changed immediately. He softened up and was much more welcoming. He then went on to thank us and tell us of his admiration for us and how we were so nice.
All I can say is that if people were to behave in the same manner and be as humble and grateful for what they have as these people were tonight, the world would be a much better place for it. I have learnt so much from this one evening - It is an experience I will take with me wherever I go. We got in at 11pm, it is now 1am and my mind is full of all sorts of thoughts which is why I am putting them all down whilst they are fresh. I will definately do something like this again one day... I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has participated in this event (either by volunteering or donating). Although I didn't get as much reponse as I had hoped for, something is better than nothing. Please see below for a list of those involved in this fantastic cause.
Name
Location
Amount Sponsored
Volunteer
Victor Torcato
Milton Keynes
£5.00
Yes
Emma Torcato
Milton Keynes
£5.00
Yes
Zoe Cannaford
London
£5.00
Yes
Tamara Wildash
London
£10.00
Yes
Anja Liebe
Brighton
£20.00
Yes
Banasa Williams
London
£0.00
Yes
Alban Giannelli
London
£5.00
No
Masai GB Ltd
London
Donated the tea bags
No
Holly Torcato (family pet)
Milton Keynes
Donated the doggie treats
No
Pret a Manger
EC2, London
Donated the sugar
No
If you still wish to donate, please do so on the link below and I will forward all donations to the charities Crisis & Shelter. Thank you.
