The Freedom Singers performed earlier this month on the show, singing Red Hot Chili Peppers’ song “Under the Bridge,” ChurchLeaders.com reports.

“We’re located not far from here,” said one man, “in a community called Skid Row…in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, where five people per day die on the streets, houseless people.

“Skid Row is in the heart of downtown Los Angeles where five people per day die on the streets, houseless people,” said one of the male singers. “So, for us, Freedom Singing brings us close together; it is that medium that we’ve always used to come together as America.”

A woman in the singing group told the audience that she had been homeless with her mother, but the Los Angeles Community Action Network helped them.

“They gave me a voice and an opportunity to rebuild myself,” she said.

Judge Howie Mandel told the Freedom Singers they gave “a voice” to homelessness, “and you have given us a purpose.” Simon Cowell called the performance “brilliant.”

“America’s Got Talent” Host Terry Crews also praised the singing group.

“I am completely touched right now,” he said, “and I just thank you for being here. You’re my brothers and sisters… God bless you.”

Freedom Singers director Micayla De Ette, who worked as a worship pastor at L.A.-area churches for some 15 years, said the singing group is a testament to how communities can help the homeless.

“Some people who are houseless, maybe who have come to transitional housing, some who have lost folks [to homelessness],” she told viewers. “And so when we see someone on the street, I want to encourage you not to look the other way.”

Skid Row in downtown L.A. is estimated to have between 9,000 to 15,000 homeless living in the area.

Photo courtesy: Unsplash/Matthias Wagner