Children's book helps families discuss homelessness

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 06:01 · Archive

A new children's book tells the real-life stories of homeless people and their dogs.

Stay! (Together), written by Jeanne Willis and illustrated by Alice Larsson, tells the real-life stories of people experiencing homelessness as seen through the eyes of their dogs. The book is commissioned by St Mungo's, a homelessness charity that operates in Oxford, and is available as a free digital download.

The book follows the journeys of Arwa and Benny, who slept rough alongside their dogs Jacko, Brandy and Casper. It aims to raise awareness of the barriers faced by homeless people who own pets and to encourage conversations about homelessness in a way accessible for children.

Research commissioned by St Mungo's found that nearly a quarter of parents, 24 per cent, find it difficult to talk to their children about homelessness in an age-appropriate way. However, 92 per cent of parents said books are a helpful way to introduce social issues. Lula Main, project manager at St Mungo's, said pets can be 'a source of comfort, stability and unconditional love during the most difficult period of someone's life'. Arwa, whose story inspired the book, said she refused an offer of accommodation that would have meant giving up her dog Jacko, preferring to remain homeless with him.

How it is being reported

• Children’s book helps families talk about homelessnessStay! (Together), written by author Jeanne Willis and illustrated by Alice Larsson, tells the real-life stories of people who experienced homelessness.Oxfordshire Guardian · 19 Oct, 05:00
• Children’s book helps families talk about homelessnessStay! (Together), written by author Jeanne Willis and illustrated by Alice Larsson, tells the real-life stories of people who experienced homelessness.Oxford Mail · 19 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Jeanne Willis · Alice Larsson · St Mungo's · Lula Main · Arwa · Oxford

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