Why I Chose to Volunteer with Help 4 The Homeless. By a Proud Volunteer
“Why?”
It’s the question I keep being asked whenever I tell people I’ve started volunteering with Help 4 The Homeless.
At first, I’d reply with a smile and say, “Well, I needed a hobby. I’ve just retired, and I don’t play golf!”
But the truth runs deeper than that.
After a lifetime of working hard, suddenly stopping left me feeling unmoored—like I’d lost my purpose. The days stretched long and empty, and the lack of direction began pulling me toward depression. I didn’t need just a hobby… I needed a reason to get up in the morning.
That’s when I found this remarkable charity.
Now, every day, I do something—big or small—to support Help 4 The Homeless. I manage some of their social media. I help collect and source essential toiletries—small comforts that allow people on the street to feel human again. I unload the van filled with donated clothes, food, and hygiene products after a night’s outreach in London. I help clean out the van and reload it, ready for the next mission.
And soon, I’ll be visiting the kitchen to see how the meals are prepared—one of the only parts of the process I haven’t yet experienced. I’m genuinely looking forward to it.
But the heart of what we do happens on Thursday nights, when our volunteers head into the West End of London to serve up to 120 people in need.
There’s no way to describe it other than humbling.
I’ve met people who’ve literally walked out of their shoes—shoes so worn through they’ve disintegrated underfoot. When you live on the street, walking becomes your only constant. You're always on the move—because no one wants you outside their door. You’re always being told to move on.
I’m still a newcomer to this charity, but Help 4 The Homeless has been doing this vital work for over 8 years. It was founded by an extraordinary couple, Shoshana and Lloyd Gilmore, who started with nothing more than two suitcases—one filled with food, the other with clothes.
Their unwavering commitment, compassion, and sheer determination to support the forgotten people of our city is honestly the biggest reason I’m here. They are, in my eyes, absolute saints.
And if I can lighten their load—if I can play even a small part in what they’ve built—then I’m proud to do it.
Want to Help?
If you’re looking for purpose, or simply want to make a difference, consider volunteering or donating to Help 4 The Homeless.
It might just change someone’s life.
It might just change yours.