The America’s Got Talent judges saw a very special audition on this week’s episode from a group called the Freedom Singers. The eight-member group explained upon taking the stage that they are located in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Skid Row, which has long been known for its houseless population. They also explained that they are part of the Los Angeles Community Action Network, which advocates for those who are experiencing poverty or homelessness. One group member shared her story of being houseless on Skid Row.

“I’m so blessed that I found the Los Angeles Community Action Network because it gave me a voice and an opportunity to rebuild myself,” she said.

Another member said the purpose of the group is to encourage others to react with compassion when coming across a person who is living on the street.

“We represent a lot of things,” she says. “Some people who were houseless, maybe came to transitional housing, some who have lost folks that are houseless. When we see someone on the street, we want to encourage you not to look the other way.”

Continue reading (via Wide Open Country)