Sammi Johnson, 32, from Stoke-on-Trent, helps the homeless.
When Ross and I moved in together as teenagers, we had £10 spare after we’d paid our bills each week. We lived off packet noodles and used food banks. I know what it feels like to wonder where the next meal is coming from. Now a care manager, all year I collect and donate surplus food, coats and sleeping bags to the homelessness charity Brighter Futures. At Christmas it’s a collective effort – we’ve had enough stock from Aldi to provide a meal and food parcel for more than 160 people.
I’ve met some amazing souls on the streets – I want them to know someone is listening and someone cares. Ross and I spend Christmas Eve cooking at the shelter, Unicorn House. We’re up at 5am on Christmas Day to open presents with our son Richie, now four. Then we deliver food parcels until lunchtime. After Richie goes to bed, we return to the streets with hot soup and bread rolls for anyone out in the cold. While there are people living on the streets, there will always be room in my Christmas to help them.
brighter-futures.org.uk
‘I made him a promise’
This story is from the November 24, 2020 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 24, 2020 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GARDEN notes
Vibrant annuals and fruit and veg
Springtime IN VENICE
A weekend in this floating city is a feast for the senses
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Breathe EASY
Do you need an air purifier at home? We find out
Stress-free ENTERTAINING
Enjoy a seasonal prep-ahead spread with friends or family
Bonded FOR LIFE
As a new mother faced the most agonising of challenges, her best friend stepped in to hel
The easy way TO EXERCISE AND HEALTH
You don't need a gym to get fit, just mini bursts of activity throughout the day to get you in shape. Here's how
TESTED BY US!
Dry shampoo refreshes hair between washes - and lifts roots and boosts volume. Here are our favourites
'Coronation Street changed my life'
Actor Georgia Taylor on finding fun and lasting friendships on the cobbles
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY