WHILE Christmas symbolises the birth of Jesus Christ for Christians—it marks a milestone or represents something more for many others worldwide. For some people, Christmas means the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas symbolises one of the best seasons worldwide and is arguably one of the most celebrated holidays. As I pondered on a Christmas theme for this week’s column piece, I kept asking myself: how do the homeless celebrate Christmas? For some people, Christmas Day is just another day meant for survival. It isn’t special, nor is it symbolic.

I don’t want to rain on the parade yet again, but as a social worker, I can’t help to always look at the holistic picture in every scenario. The same can be said for Christmas and the festive activities. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to spend large on gifts and decorations. In extreme circumstances where homelessness exists for a multitude of reasons—people simply do not celebrate Christmas. I’ve written an article earlier on charitable work during the holiday season but I wanted to further expand on what it means to be homeless, especially during the holiday season.

For some people, it might serve as a reminder of what they had or a yearning for what they want to have in every aspect of life. It may mean that some homeless persons simply despise Christmas because what is there to celebrate when life is kicking you to the curb—literally? It is saddening to see a spike in charitable work during the holiday season. I wish the same energy could be shown by organisations and charities all year long. Nonetheless, I am still thankful that there are efforts because being homeless during any holiday must be very difficult. I can’t even begin to imagine what that feels like. Can you?

It doesn’t sit right with me and I don’t think I can spend this Christmas Day without thinking about someone yearning for a cosy place to sleep or something to eat. Unfortunately, I can’t find ways to resolve every single case of homelessness, but this is why I am writing articles like these. I’ve checked in on my privileges, and I am aware that I am fortunate to have my family around me and a roof over my head this holiday season. If you’re thinking about simple ways to help the homeless this season, you can consider sharing lunch on Christmas Day and providing clothes, sanitary products, and even gifts.

You can perhaps become their Santa for the day and get them a gift they’d like to have—given that you can afford it. In your own little way, you can help put a smile on their face this Christmas. If we all help at least one homeless person in our community to find shelter, jobs, food or even a rehabilitation programme—the world will have fewer people living on the streets for the next Christmas.