08:00, 06 August 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
It is unfortunate that homelessness is still an issue that affects millions around the world. According to UN Habitat in 2022, 1.6 billion people around the world have lacked adequate housing. However, many famous faces have used their platform and influence to fight for better housing for many.
Here are five inspiring figures who are proving that compassion and action can go hand in hand. Each person is making powerful strides to combat homelessness and offer hope to those who need it most.
Many of the Royals have a social cause that they’re known for and Prince William is one that puts a lot of effort into making housing more accessible and reducing poverty. Continuing on Princess Diana’s legacy Prince Will created Homewards, a Royal Foundation initiative that has a 5-year goal to be on the path to end homelessness.
So far the initiative is building 16 new supported homes in Lambeth with Centrepoint, aiming to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurrent.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Dame Helen Mirren, spoke out countless times highlighting housing insecurity and the effect this has on the arts industry. She highlighted the plight many young performers faced (and continue to face) as a product of job losses and financial hardship, especially those who work in contract based employment.
Due to her advocacy, she became a patron of Centrepoint, and continues to amplify young people’s stories and fights for safe housing and support services.
Unfortunately homelessness can impact many different communities. Well, Rihanna surprised homeless veterans in LA with supplies, sleeping bags, food and mini safes in 2022 through her foundation, the Clara Lionel Foundation.
Her support ensures that veterans who are homeless or facing physical and mental health challenges receive the care they need, offering both immediate relief and long-term opportunities for stability.
Michael Sheen describes himself as a “not-for-profit actor” and has been a passionate advocate for tackling homelessness and housing inequality. He has supported The Big Issue, using the platform to amplify the voices of those affected by homelessness.
A lot of his homelessness advocacy has been in worked on closely with Shelter Cymru, the Welsh housing charity, advocating for fair social housing policies and stronger tenant rights. In 2019, he used his own money to fund the Homeless World Cup in Cardiff when its financial backing fell through, ensuring the event could go ahead and continue its mission of empowering homeless people through sport.
At Smiley News we are no stranger to Michael Sheen’s good deeds. Read here to know more about the causes he cares about.
Stormzy’s Merky Foundation tackles homelessness by funding youth housing projects and supporting organisations like Centrepoint, which provides accommodation and vital support for homeless young people.
As a popular figure amongst young people, the Stormzy and the foundation helps create opportunities for them to build better futures through mentorship, education, and career development. Merky Foundation’s focus is on long-term solutions, ensuring young people have the resources they need to escape homelessness and thrive.
At Smiley Movement, we elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this post.
Homewards: Launched by Prince William and The Royal Foundation in June 2023, they work with six flagship locations across the UK, fostering locally-led coalitions and providing resources to demonstrate that homelessness is solvable. Find out more.
Shelter: A UK-based charity that helps people facing homelessness and poor housing by providing advice, support, and advocacy to secure safe and affordable homes. Learn more here.
Centerpoint: A UK-based charity supports young homeless people by providing accommodation, health support, and life skills to help them build a brighter future. Support them here.
This article aligns with the SDG No Poverty, Good Health and Wellbeing.
