Network Rail is once again teaming up with the Midland Langar Seva Society (MLSS) to serve a three-course meal to vulnerable people inside Birmingham New Street this Christmas.
While most people settle in to spend Christmas with family and loved ones, others can often face a lonely and bleak time. Following the success of previous years, up to 300 homeless and vulnerable people will be able to enjoy a festive party on Christmas Eve in the busiest station outside of London.
It will be the seventh time the award-winning charity and Network Rail has teamed up to provide hot food, entertainment, and gifts to people in Birmingham on Christmas Eve. Elizabeth Graham, Birmingham New Street station manager, said: “A hot meal in a welcoming environment makes a real difference to those in the city who find themselves needing some extra help and support at Christmas, so we’re really proud to be bringing it back this year with the Midland Langar Seva Society and the help of local businesses.
“MLSS does great work across the Midlands and beyond, and it’s a pleasure to be able to host this special Christmas meal and provide people with a chance to unwind for a few hours out of the cold and in the safe company of others.” Randhir Singh, CEO of Midland Langar Seva Society, said: We’re honoured to celebrate the seventh year of our Homeless Christmas Eve Dinner with Network Rail, a tradition of love and kindness for those facing the season alone.
“At Midland Langar Seva Society, we believe no one should be forgotten, especially at Christmas. Each evening, we serve meals; on this night, we serve hope. For those missing loved ones, we’re here to remind them they are not alone and that they matter.
“It’s about feeding hearts as much as bodies, sharing warmth, and lifting spirits. Let’s come together and make this Christmas a little brighter for those in need.” The event will provide three courses of vegetarian food, non-alcoholic drinks, and entertainment in the form of a DJ, carol singers and Christmas gifts.
Midland Langar Seva Society is a charity based on the Sikh principle of ‘dasvand’, which involves giving 10% of your time and earnings to help those less fortunate. Volunteers from Network Rail, the rail industry and Midland Langar Seva Society will work throughout the afternoon to cater for up to 300 people.
A section of the station concourse will be reserved for the event between 2pm and 5pm on December 24. This Christmas Eve meal aims to represent the principle of equality among all people regardless of religion, caste, colour, creed, age, gender, sexuality or social status.
In addition to the ideals of equality, the tradition of Langar (free meal) expresses the ethics of sharing, community, inclusiveness, and the oneness of humankind.
