With winter approaching, temperatures in Belgium already plummet below zero degrees Celsius. For homeless people, the winter months pose a serious threat. This is where the community project, “Night Angels” comes in!
This initiative, which is run by the Universal Church and present in 38 countries works to bring food, toiletries, warm items, such as clothes and blankets to those sleeping rough in the community.
Last Tuesday, fifty people from eight Belgian cities – Brussels, Ixelles, Anderlecht, Schaerbeek, Charleroi, Gent, Aalst and Antwerp – were visited by the Night angels and shown physical and spiritual support. The volunteers offered hot meals, snacks and warm clothes to the population that lives on the streets.
The person responsible for the action in Belgium, Andre Machado, informs that excessive cold creates another problem for many: addiction to alcoholic beverages and drugs.
“In addition, there are others who have been abandoned by their family or have lost their home and work,” he explained. “There are many immigrants who do not receive help. So, especially during cooler months, we aim to bring warm clothes and food to them.”
Isabelle, a volunteer who participates in this initiative, shared some difficulties she has experienced which led her to want to help others. “I’ve been in need too, raising four children alone. And there were those who helped me. That’s why I want to do my part,” she said.
Her colleague, Luis, shared, “I met a young, disabled, Belgian woman who was abandoned by her parents on the street. To this day she hasn’t had the support of her family.” When the volunteers found her, they not only offered her food but also gave her kind words, a smile and the spiritual support she needed.
The Night Angels project is also active in many of our Universal Churches across the UK. If you would like to know more, or find out how you can help, visit your nearest branch and speak with your Pastor.
For more updates on community events and initiatives hosted by the Universal Church, visit us on our social media platforms.
