Random Objects of Kindness
Presenting ‘Random Objects of Kindness’, an exhibition commissioned by Manchester Arndale and created by Heard Storytelling, in support of Real Change MCR. Its aim is to increase understanding of the different factors contributing to homelessness and to support the importance of community support.
The free audio-visual exhibition will run from 10 October, also World Homelessness Day and World Mental Health Day, and will run until 23 October. It is located on the lower mall, near Monki.
Graham
Through trials that tested the very core of Graham’s existence, Jimi Hendrix’s music became a steadfast companion. From the darkest hours of loss and despair to the triumph of self-discovery, this is a story of how one artist’s creations became a lifeline to another.
(Trigger warning: References death)
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Joe
A pivotal moment at Moss Side’s Pepperhill pub is the start of Joe’s remarkable journey from a chaotic life of crime and despair to one of resilience and purpose.
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Haydn
“There is a way out. There is hope.”
Amidst struggles with dyslexia and societal prejudice, Haydn’s journey unfolds from the urgency of teenage parenthood to the depths of street homelessness. A gift of a guitar becomes a beacon of hope, igniting a remarkable path fuelled by love and the transformative power of music.
(Trigger warning: References suicide)
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Risha
“All I wanted to do was go home”
From the cherished warmth of her grandma’s house to the heart-wrenching displacement that tore their family apart. This story traces a journey of resilience, ultimately leading to the creation of Coffee 4 Craig, where the simple act of offering clean underwear becomes a symbol of dignity and self-esteem.
(Trigger warning: References suicide)
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Michelle
In the face of adversity, the power of music and a mother’s love are a constant. This powerful story takes us from the despair of street homelessness to the respite of a mother and daughter playing piano side by side.
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Amy
From making life-changing decisions to a decade of relentless perseverance, Amy’s journey begins in Shelter accommodation, where the independence of owning a fridge marked an important turning point.
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Dave
“You can’t put a price on people’s lives.”
A random meeting on New Year’s Eve for Dave, a committed police officer, brings up issues about the complexities of homelessness, media exposure, and its repercussions.
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Neil
“We often have a lot more hope for the people walking through our doors, than they do for themselves”
Neil, from Christian homeless charity Barnabus, opens a door onto a safe and welcoming space, providing a beacon of hope to people during the darkest of times.
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Barbara
An encounter with a tiny kitten, the runt of the litter, paves a way towards love and connection. A journey that defies past scars and emotional barriers.
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Colette
“I was worth it. I wasn’t just a need or a crisis”
Can a small act of kindness change a life? Colette takes us on a journey of transformation, where a rare moment of celebration and genuine recognition becomes a powerful turning point.
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About Real Change MCR
Real Change MCR is a fund to help people experiencing homelessness in Manchester pay for practical items that they need to build lives away from the streets, such as deposits for homes, clothes furnishing new homes, travel costs and employment training.
The fund is used by Manchester homelessness organisations and charities who provide long-term support on the journey to independent living.
We invite you to join us in taking meaningful action against homelessness by making a donation to Real Change MCR. Your donation will help to provide practical items that can make a lasting impact on those in need.
Donate now