Updated

The ambassadors of the United States and Britain have served soup to homeless people who came to Bucharest's railway station for food and clothing.

Ian Tilling, whose heads the Casa Ioana charity which houses about 250 people a year in shelters, said Bucharest has about 5,000 homeless people. Wednesday's event was intended to publicize the problem, which draws little public attention.

Aurelia Branescu, 36, said she has lived on the streets since she was 9. She says she has 11 children, and works odd jobs, sweeping or cleaning carpets.

She was among 300 people who received soup, bread and clothing.

British Ambassador Paul Brummell served soup as the first snow fell in the city.

U.S. Ambassador Hans G. Klemm commented that solving homelessness "takes time, dedication and resources."