After participating in the online Amma retreat offered during the summer, my son and I felt a calling to help the homeless. A local organisation in Swansea (who provided a soup-run before the pandemic) told us where homeless people congregate and the help needed. We familiarised ourselves with the rules and regulations on the distribution of food, purchased the correct PPE equipment to protect them as well as us, and set ourselves up to serve the hungry and those in need.
We began serving the homeless on Amma’s birthday and are now making it a regular Sunday offering. The beauty of what we do is that it is offered from the heart of my family; homemade sandwiches, soup (which on arrival we warm-up on a primus stove from the boot of my car) and cake — all carefully prepared from our own kitchen. We also take water and fruit and offer warming cups of tea and coffee. Everyone is offered extra portions and take-away for either the next few days and/or a friend.
Serving the homeless always provides a different experience. The majority are men, some have addictions or mental health problems, often they share how they haven’t eaten for one or two days. One thing is always consistent though — they are always very grateful and it’s so heart-warming to see their smiles grow on their faces as they take their food. — Foss-Stewart Family, {Swansea}”
As the days become colder Amma-UK will support this initiative by providing donations of scarves, hats, blankets, socks, coats, gloves — anything warm! If you would like to donate/participate please email info@amma.org.uk for further information.
