On 10 October we will mark World Homeless Day, a day dedicated to lifting up the voices of people experiencing homelessness, raising awareness of systemic challenges, and coming together in empathy and action.
This year, here in Cambridge, we’re honoured that Barry Griffiths has penned a poem for the occasion. Through his words, we are reminded not simply of what is lost, but of what can still be built: community, dignity, hope.
I had a name once
(By Barry Griffiths)
I sat on a bench, home was memory past
I don’t know what happened, it was all so fast
One moment I was Barry, a person that I got
Now I am one of that homeless lotFaceless, nameless but still alive it seemed
But not worthy of a hello it was deemed
People walk by my bench without a care
One moment I was Barry, now I’m not thereTurned into a number overnight
No conversation, no place, limited rights
Just someone alone on a bench, cold and afraid
One moment I was Barry, now a burden, mislaidEnsuite, four beds, home, had it all you know
Now here on a bench, with nowhere to go
How do I explain how I got to this place
One moment I was Barry, now I am not even a faceWhilst sitting on the street, I picture all I have lost
Not just items and things, but the emotional cost
Where do I go to recover from this state I’m in
One moment I was Barry, now wondering where to beginWhere do I belong, what use am I now
What’s my purpose, what does my future allow
I need to find my place again, not be a weight to carry
I had a name once
These lines speak to the loss and isolation that homelessness can bring—but they also remind us of the power of a helping hand, a warm smile, or a safe space.
Homelessness is not distant. Across the UK, more and more people are facing housing insecurity, with rising numbers in temporary accommodation and rough sleeping. For organisations like Jimmy’s Cambridge, the question is never just how to offer a bed for one night, but how to support people on the journey from the street floor to their own front door.
Whilst we aren’t hosting an event this World Homeless Day, we ask you to show your commitment to supporting Jimmy’s by buying tickets to our Carol Concert later this year, more information below.
This coming December, we invite you to join us in a different kind of gathering. On 3 December 2025, we hold our first Christmas Carol Concert at Great St Mary’s Church, Cambridge. Doors open at 5:15pm; the concert begins at 6:00pm.
It will be an evening of cherished carols, moving choral performances, music from local artists and schools—and above all, a chance for the community to come together. Every penny raised will go directly towards supporting people experiencing homelessness across Cambridge during what is for many the coldest, loneliest season.
How you can help:
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Attend the concert—or invite a friend.
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Volunteer your time. Whether helping with events, serving meals, or adhoc tasks such as gardening or painting.
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Share this message: poetry, art, stories bring truth to light.
Barry’s poem ends with a reminder: hope is more than a word. It’s action, kindness, presence. On this World Homeless Day and into the Christmas season, let’s choose to be people of hope.
Find out more about World Homeless Day here.
