Hope on Hope Street

One Thursday, after leaving Hope+ Foodbank  with two bags overflowing with food, a grateful client, Duncan, met a young student called Joe on Hope Street. Joe engaged in conversation with Duncan, as he had noticed him slowly ambling along the street, in the bitter cold. Joe gave Duncan time to listen to his story and was horrified to hear that his only source of food was from Hope+ Foodbank. Joe then  struggled with conflicting emotions of anger, at the cruel imposition of sanctions, and compassion for the man in front of him.

Later on Joe contacted me, after searching for contact details on the St Bride’s website. He told me that he would like to direct his angry energy into action, to make a change. He offered to come and help at the Hope+ Foodbank at St Bride’s for a couple of hours the following week. Joe then suggested he could use his skills as a writer to share stories with those who have the power to make changes and bring back hope to people’s lives.

This story of an encounter on Hope Street has filled me with great hope. There is compassion and care on our streets of Liverpool, and people want to change systems that deprive people of their dignity and self-worth. I wonder how many other people had passed by David before Joe saw him and crossed the road? Thankfully, Joe saw David as a neighbour in need!

Helen Randall – 9.2.15