Emmaus Colchester is delighted to announce that it is building seven new rooms for its companions above its Home Shop on Colchester High Street.
The first-floor conversion is being funded through the charity’s social enterprise with the additional of a £100K grant from Emmaus UK.
The first-floor conversion will include a communal lounge, kitchen area and seven en-suite bedrooms.
Emmaus Colchester chief executive officer Denise King said: “It’s a much needed improvement to our property and allows us to utilise the first floor, giving our companions a home and a place to work.
“We already have 24 rooms in the community house on Magdalen Street, but this new space is for those companions who require greater privacy, more independence, and for those who are getting ready to move on.”
Emmaus Colchester trustee Charles Ince said: “It has been the aim of the Trustees for some while to increase the number of permanent companion rooms we are able to offer.
“Whilst we have previously rented additional rooms, the opportunity to create seven new and permanent rooms with associated facilities within premises we are fortunate enough to own makes a very positive statement of our commitment to further alleviating local homelessness. This scheme will also provide us with the opportunity to consolidate and improve our retail offer at the East end of The High Street.”
The charity that supports those who have previously experienced homelessness, will be closing the Home Shop while the work commences on the first floor, which is expected to be completed in the summer. During the refurbishment stock will be moved to the neighbouring Emporium store. While the Home Shop is closed customers can also visit Emmaus Works on Magdalen Street and Emmaus New Life on Crouch Street.
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