A new book of poems that gives an honest view of what it can mean to be homeless is now available from Emmaus Leeds.
No Homeless Problem is a collection of poems based on the stories of 44 formerly homeless people across the UK who are now being supported by homelessness charity Emmaus. Each poem invites the reader to understand the issues surrounding homelessness and the reality of living on the street. This powerful collection of poetry has allowed individuals to voice the struggles that hundreds of homeless people face daily.
Irish writer Séamus Fox has battled alcoholism and experienced homelessness himself. In 2015, he moved to London to find work and after several months found himself homeless. Seamus came to understand the social and human injustices that result in so many people finding themselves living on the streets.
Séamus Fox, author of No Homeless Problem, said: “I wrote this book to give an insight into how different people may become homeless and how they attempt to survive on the street. I want people who have never been homeless or who have never known homeless people to search in their souls for shreds of compassion.”
There are currently 29 Emmaus communities across the country, supporting more than 800 companions in the UK. In 2017, Séamus spent 9 months travelling to a number of Emmaus communities to gather content from the stories and experiences of formerly homeless people.
Terry Waite CBE, Emmaus UK President, said: “Anyone who may have casually dismissed homeless people as being parasites should read what Séamus has written. It is insightful, moving and compelling. The writer has the gift of language and is able to put into verse many of the feelings and aspirations of many.”
As one of the 29 Emmaus communities, Emmaus Leeds provides up to 26 people a home for as long as needed and meaningful work in its social enterprise. The combination of a supportive environment and the opportunity to work allows people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion to regain lost self-esteem, restore confidence and rebuild their lives for a better future.
No Homeless Problem and other poems by Séamus Fox is available from Emmaus Leeds stores, priced at £7.99. The book is also available online from publisher Arkbound.
To find out more about the work of Emmaus Leeds head to www.emmaus.org.uk/leeds. For more information, to donate an item or get involved as a volunteer call 0113 248 4288 or visit Emmaus Leeds at St Mary’s Street, Leeds, LS9 7DP.