Homelessness
Homelessness is something that we all try and forget about, even if we are walking past someone sitting on the cold ground in a train station doorway. It is something we take for granted when we go home to four walls and a roof over our heads.
According to Shelter, in November 2018, 320,000 people in Britain were homeless and a staggering 135,000 of these people are children which is the highest number in 12 years.
We feel that it is time to act.
Winter is the hardest time for people who are homeless. The elements mean that finding shelter is harder which can lead to death. According to the Guardian, 78 homeless people died over the winter of 2018.
How Smile 101 Can Help
On Saturday 14th December, Dr Sheila Chauhan volunteered with the charity ‘Under One Sky’.
This charity consists of 270 volunteers who take part in this community outreach in addition to their family and work commitments. Smile 101 also donated toothpaste and toothbrushes so that everyone can have a chance to keep their smiles beautiful and healthy.
Under One Sky relies on private donations and without them they would not be able to do the fantastic work that they do.
This year – thanks to your kind donations – they have exceeded their target goal of £15,000!
If you would like to know more about Under One Sky or make a donation to their cause, then please follow the link.
A Real Life Story
‘I have been rough sleeping on night buses for two months. I’m originally from Hungary where I worked as a computer programmer. I have been in the UK for six years and became homeless due to family problems. I had an abusive partner and the relationship broke down. I lost my accommodation and my job. Street Link referred me to St Mungo’s who referred me here to Crisis at Christmas.
My experience here has been enjoyable. I have had access to sewing, computers, advice, a trip to the British Museum and the hairdresser. I am very happy with my hair. I have been able to get advice about housing, and the people here want to help me. My next step is to find temporary accommodation and I am hoping to find a job, any job, and to sign up for some Skylight courses.
The advice I would give to my eighteen-year old self would be: Find what you like, study what you like, but get a part-time job while studying. My dream is to be a developer, programmer, website designer and coder. I dream of going back home as I did those things there. I feel I have no chance here anymore.’