1 switch you can make that will make a difference to homeless lives

One night I was going out to meet friends in Manchester and it was the middle of a very cold snap in Winter where it was icy cold and frosty. (Hard to imagine in the middle of Summer, but it was baltic!) I was bundled up in a coat and scarf but still felt the bite of the cold and I couldn't wait to get into the restaurant to warm up. As I was rushing through the town, a man caught my attention. He was sitting on the freezing ground, asking very politely for help. It stopped me in my tracks to encounter someone sitting still on the cold stone ground. He wanted money to be able to afford a place to stay overnight. I talked to him and ended up giving him what I could. He was so appreciative.

Did he use that money for a place to stay? I don't know.

What happened to that man? I don't know.

Did I feel like I made a difference? No, not really but I just didn't know what else I could do. I wanted to help him.

I'd like to say it was an isolated incidence, but it hasn't been. There have been many other times where I've come across people in desperate need and I've bought food or whatever, to try to help. However, each time I have left feeling like this isn't actually making any difference to their lives past that moment. I just did what I could because I cared and I didn't know what else to do. I couldn't just do nothing.

When you feel compassion towards something, it's right to do what you can, but there is something I've found out now, that goes beyond just there here and now, to making a long term difference. It's what I've been wanting to do all along and I want to share it with you. You may have heard about it...

Ethical Investing!

I found out about Green Pastures and their audacious goal to end homelessness. They provide an ethical investment scheme which is making a practical difference to the lives of homeless people all over the UK. You can invest anything over £1000 for a minimum of a year and depending on the terms you choose, you can earn up to 5% interest. This investment is actually helping homeless people get a house and support, creating a sustainable option to helping those in need. Green Pastures are already providing homes for over 1380 people and each person is given support and care. This solution is long term and really makes a difference to their lives.

I think I will always give what I can at the point of need, but I love that by investing I am also helping in a sustainable way to make a transformational difference.

Most of their investors come by word of mouth, from other investors recommending them, which is really reassuring. They have over 1400 investors with ¬£45 Million invested in total. I love that this money isn't going to the greedy bank or sitting doing nothing, but is working hard for good. I love that my savings can actually make a difference. What a great idea!

To become an investor is so easy, you just request their investor form here and fill in your details. They are there for help at any stage and are brilliant at answering questions and making sure you have all the information you need.

Together we can end homelessness, I believe that now more than ever.

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To see more information about investing, click here.