A volunteer with Crisis at Christmas shared his inspiring story with the BBC, detailing how the organization transformed his life after he found himself living on the streets of London.

Con recounted that, following a breakup with his partner, he had no option but to sleep rough as he lost both his job and home a decade ago. His breakthrough came after he reached out to Crisis while battling a severe illness, which led to ongoing support that enabled him to access healthcare and secure stable housing.

Now in good health and employed, Con is eager to give back by assisting at the charity’s three special Christmas day centers opening in London.

During the festive season, he will be involved in serving meals and drinks, as well as greeting those who seek assistance.

The centers, located in Stratford, Pimlico, and Bermondsey, will be operational from December 24 to 28, offering meals—including a festive dinner—showers, healthcare, haircuts, clothing, and support for housing and benefits.

These centers welcome anyone facing homelessness to drop in during the holiday period.

Reflecting on his initial experience with Crisis in 2015, Con recalled, “It was around November or December, and the cold was unbearable. I turned to drinking… I was feeling hopeless, even scavenging for food at times, and then I became seriously ill.”

He was hospitalized, where doctors discovered he had cancer and various other health issues, which he shared with BBC London.

“For me, that was a pivotal moment,” he explained. “I was so deeply entrenched in my situation; I had lost my sense of identity and direction.”

After discovering a Crisis at Christmas center in Homerton, Con was able to find meals, shower facilities, and enroll in a program for long-term support to rebuild his life.

Crisis provided the medical care he desperately needed and helped him enroll in courses that eventually led to employment.

Now, a decade later, Con works in local government assisting the homeless and also dedicates his time to volunteering with Crisis.

“I never imagined ten years ago that the support I received would lead me to access chemotherapy, overcome my cancer, go into remission, and ultimately arrive at where I am today,” he shared.

He encourages those facing homelessness to seek assistance from outreach services or charities like Crisis: “Do not hesitate,” he advised BBC London. “They are here to support you.

“When you’re ready, the door will always be open. Embrace the help they’re offering; that’s what they’re there for.”