Russell’s mercy mission The star took a break from nursing his sick son to help feed Sydney’s most needy Not even his sick baby could stop doting dad Russell Crowe from lending support to Sydney's homeless and hungry. Despite drama at home, the superstar kept his commitment to help the Just Enough Faith Foundation as they served up hot meals on the streets of inner-city Sydney. While Russell was impressed by the enthusiastic work of philanthropist Jeff Gambin and his team of volunteers, his mind was clearly on his most dedicated role - that of a loving dad to 20-month-old Charlie. Charlie has been sick with a mystery illness, keeping worried mum Danielle Spencer, 35, and dad up until all hours. And while Russell may be an Academy Award-winning actor, he shows he has the same worries as any parent when their child is sick. "We were only meant to be in Australia for a few more days," he says, "but our little boy's been sick for the last five or six days, so we have to wait to see if he gets right before we travel." Russell is due in France to begin filming A Good Year , and will team up with Ridley Scott, who directed him in Gladiator. Asked if Charlie is suffering the dreaded flu that's been ravaging young and old alike, 41-year-old Russell says, "It's a combination of things. He's really quite ill. He'll be fine but it's this whole thing where you feel so helpless with a sick baby." His worries notwithstanding, Russell was clearly blown away by the work of the Just Enough Faith team. They toil seven days a week, 12 months a year, providing food, offering counselling, returning children to school and the unemployed to the work force, and providing housing for those on the streets. "I heard about this fellow [former restaurateur Jeff Gambin]." he says. "It's quite amazing when you find somebody prepared to be that charitable. It's a massive amount of generosity from one man and the organisation should be helped as much as possible." And indeed, the Foundation will be helped in a big way at the Australian premiere of Russell's dramatic new movie Cinderella Man on September 21. Guests will pay $2000 a head for the privilege of rubbing shoulders with international showbiz. 'They're hoping to raise a lot of money for the cause," says Russ, who reveals that his empathy for the homeless was raised while researching his acclaimed role in A Beautiful Mind . "I got to learn some of the very serious reasons behind the increase in homelessness, and I felt it's only right that I step forward and support Just Enough Faith. "I'm hoping I'll be able to get back to Australia for the premiere of Cinderella Man ," he says. "It's going to be tight, but we'll work that out as it's going to be a really good night.” And for a good cause. Story: Glen Williams To buy tickets to the premiere, or donate to Just Enough Faith call (02) 92828018 or email Imitchell@pbl.com.au