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'I've got no family so these are my second family'

Jamie MoughtonNorth West
News imageBBC Jamie leans his head as he talks. He wears a grey beanie hat and blue coat over a grey top. He is in the room with other guests milling behind.BBC
Jamie was among 100 people to enjoy a free Christmas party for the homeless

"Most people don't even give you the time of day but these people do, no matter who you are."

Steve is one of about 100 homeless and vulnerable people who enjoyed a free Christmas meal arranged by 30 volunteers at Mr OId Hall Street Kitchen in Liverpool on Sunday.

Gifts were handed out as those who had fallen on harder times were able to dance their worries away to festive tunes.

One of the guests, Jamie, said: "I've got no family of my own, these are my second family so it's nice to come out and have a meal."

He added: "For them to put this on for all of us is just absolutely amazing. It just means obviously people care about you."

News imageA female volunteer points to large pan on the cooker while chatting to a male volunteer in a santa hat. They are in the kitchen with metal fridges and appliances behind.
About 30 volunteers prepared the meal and entertainment

Gunita Jackson, who volunteers at the kitchen, said the event was held to "get everyone together because you don't get together a lot".

"It's just nice to see people smiling, having a little chat with them, be more personal with them - like pulling a Christmas cracker."

Mikey said he felt "safe" in the community atmosphere with people he knew, while Gail added: "It feels brilliant - what they do - helping everyone."

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