Pope Francis backs Snoop Dogg Christmas song to end homelessness now

In the UK over 160,000 people are homeless. Just off London's Oxford Street, in fashionable Mayfair village, a homeless film director and London band teamed up with Rapper Snoop Dogg to end homelessness now. 

When the hip hop beats of Hard Times and Snoop Dogg's inimitable flow reached the ears of 87 year old Pope Francis he loved it so much he issued, there and then, a Papal Blessing for the charitable endeavour.

Hard Times ft Snoop Dogg

Homeless film director, David Fussell, met London musicians Ooberfuse at the Homeless Restaurant which provides restaurant style meals to Oxford Street's rough sleepers. After a few jamming sessions Hard Times was born. 

Fussell says "the searching lyrics tell the homeless issue from a new point of view. The story isn't told from an on-looker's point of view like the great Phil Collins song Another Day in Paradise. Rather, Hard Times tells the story in the first person, drawing on real pain 'shivering in the cold and the rain'. Hard Times makes it clear being made homeless could happen to anyone of us. It starts 'I never thought that it would be like this / Sleeping in a doorway on the streets like this....'"

The Holy Father, Pope Francis, emphasises "the importance of caring for the most vulnerable in society' and urges that we seize opportunities like this 'to build a more fraternal world."

Twice a week, on Wednesday and Saturday, a group of volunteers from Central London Catholic Churches distribute food donated by Mayfair eateries like The Connaught and The Mayfair Chippy to the tables of London's rough sleepers in Farm Street's Arrupe Hall.

Hal, a musician from ooberfuse, says "the guy who runs the project, Dominic Robinson is like a modern day Robin Hood! 

"He literally goes to the swankiest restaurants in Mayfair and takes food destined for the sophisticated palettes of the super-wealthy and puts it on the tables of the homeless in Arrupe Hall. It's next level wealth-redistribution!"

(Image courtesy of Myriams-Fotos of Pixabay)

Spreading Warmth and Hope: Helping Homeless Charities at Christmas

As the Christmas season approaches, our hearts are filled with warmth, joy, and a strong desire to share with those in need. For the homeless population, the Christmas season can be particularly challenging. 

The biting cold, the isolation, and the absence of family can make this time of year incredibly difficult for them. 

However, there is much that we can do to make a difference in their lives. In this blog post, we will explore ways in which you can contribute to homeless charities during the Christmas season, spreading hope and love.

Volunteer Your Time

One of the most valuable gifts you can give to homeless charities during the Christmas season is your time. Volunteers are the lifeblood of these organisations. There are numerous tasks that require assistance, from serving hot meals at shelters to organising charity collections. Spending your time and energy helping out can have a profound impact on the lives of those less fortunate.

Donate Warm Clothing and Supplies

Winter can be brutal for those living on the streets, and having warm clothing is essential for survival. Donating blankets, coats, gloves, scarves, and socks can make a significant difference. You can also provide basic hygiene supplies, such as toiletries and sanitary items, as well as non-perishable food items.

Financial Contributions

Monetary donations are incredibly helpful for homeless charities. They can use these funds to provide shelter, food, medical care, and rehabilitation services to those in need. Consider making a one-time donation or setting up a recurring contribution to ensure ongoing support.

Support Local Initiatives

Many communities have local initiatives and campaigns aimed at helping the homeless during Christmas. Find out what's happening in your area and get involved. Attend fundraisers, participate in charity runs, or collaborate with local businesses that are running campaigns to support homeless charities.

Organize Fundraisers

You don't have to be part of a charity organisation to make a difference. Organise your own fundraisers, such as a charity bake sale, car wash, or a charity auction. Get your friends and family involved to increase the impact of your efforts.

Provide Christmas Meals

Christmas is a time for feasting and celebrating with loved ones. Extend this joy to those in need by organizing Christmas meals at local shelters or soup kitchens. Gather a group of volunteers to prepare and serve a warm, festive meal, bringing a bit of holiday cheer to those who may have nowhere else to go.

Raise Awareness

Spread the word about the importance of helping homeless charities during the Christmas season. Use your social media platforms and other communication channels to raise awareness about the struggles homeless individuals face and encourage others to join in the effort to make a difference.

Christmas is a season of giving, and one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate is by helping homeless charities. Whether you volunteer your time, donate supplies, contribute financially, or organize your own initiatives, your efforts can bring warmth, hope, and joy to those who need it most.

Remember that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact, and together, we can make the world a better place for everyone, especially during the holiday season. Let's spread love and compassion, making this Christmas a time of generosity and empathy for all.

(Image courtesy Brigitte Werner from Pixabay)