Homeless Aid UK brings warm meals and compassion to Oldham's most vulnerable

Amidst wars, disputes and rising global tensions, one small group is making a big difference – offering meals to those in need during a time of soaring inflation and skyrocketing living costs.

Homeless Aid UK has been running a Soup Kitchen outside Oldham Market for seven weeks and volunteers have been left gob smacked by the horrendous plight of the people they have met - individuals who simply cannot afford to buy food or even a drink. 

The community group, which receives no funding and relies heavily on food donations is made up of 22 volunteers who not only serve food but offer emotional support too. 

Billa Ahmed, a graphic designer by profession, who started the group in Manchester 15 years ago, alongside his close friend Ben Ahern, talked about their eye-opening journey so far. 

He said: “We came to Oldham seven weeks ago and each week the number of people coming to us is creeping up. We have joined organisations like the Street Angels to help as many people as possible and the food is kindly donated by K’s Lounge in Oldham, and Lilly’s Restaurant in Ashton.

“I started this group because I was helping a lot of charities internationally, but then I thought charity starts at home and I live in the UK so I should be helping people here. 

“We are a volunteer group who work without wages and receive no funding whatsoever.” 

The group works tirelessly 365 days a year - not forgetting those in need on special occasions such as Eid, Christmas, Diwali and Easter. 

The Soup Kitchen has gone from strength-to-strength and has now expanded to other towns including Bolton, Wigan, Bury, Leigh, Liverpool and as far as London and Glasgow.  

Billa explained: “Our group is very diverse, and we are there for the struggling people during big events like Christmas and other festivities  to show them that they are not forgotten and not alone.

“At Christmas people talk about not being given gifts so we have started giving gifts. At Easter we give out Easter Eggs.  

“Most importantly, we make people feel human because the cost of living is shocking and it is only getting worse.” 

Stephenie Mizara, who is the team leader in Oldham, said: “Our most recent Soup Kitchen saw 28 people attend and it was the busiest. We have quite a few regular and new faces. 

“Our message is simple - that you don’t have to be homeless or receive benefits to use our service. We will not judge anyone. We are there for everyone.” 

Billa said: “We are a humanitarian organisation and if we don’t help these struggling people – nobody else will so we have to do it.  

“We greet people with a smile and offer emotional support and advice.” 

Imtiaz Sharif, another team leader, added: “I support many charities, but this has really opened my eyes to see how people are falling into hard times. Our service is a lifeline for them.”