They're uncomfortable with people whose lives seem to lack purpose. The choir breaks down the barriers. But they're not used to what these men were doing. There's no question that the people most profoundly affected are the choristers themselves. But the benefits extend far beyond money.
Members say they've gained a sense of order and structure.
Now, instead of living a nomadic existence, all but one receive regular social assistance, and all but two have permanent quarters in rooms or apartments. There is also a consensus that they now have dignity. A nursing assistant for 25 years, he was laid off four years ago, and six months later found himself homeless. Yet all the members agree that the greatest benefit of belonging to the group is the opportunity to give. It's a kind of magic.