On Friday 15 November, we were pleased to welcome Mary Creagh CBE, MP for Coventry East, to Emmaus Coventry & Warwickshire.
Since taking on her role as a Labour MP for the area in July, Mary visited us to learn more about our unique approach to ending homelessness. During the visit, we explained how our charity combines accommodation, personalised support, training, and work opportunities for up to 17 people who have experienced or been at risk of homelessness.
Mary Creagh shared her thoughts, saying: “It was wonderful to see Emmaus’ work in Coventry, and their community home for 17 people, which goes beyond offering a bed for the night and provides a holistic, longer-term approach to tackling homelessness. By providing longer-term accommodation, a supportive community, and work opportunities to help people from returning to sleeping on the streets, Emmaus is showing how we can effectively tackle homelessness in Coventry.”
Her visit was an opportunity for us to showcase the vital role we play in the local community and to discuss the broader political challenges related to homelessness. Mary also spoke directly with some of the people we support, hearing first-hand how our charity has made a positive difference in their lives.
As part of the visit, Mary toured our accommodation in Binley, where each resident has their own private room, with living expenses and meals covered. This allows them to focus on rebuilding their lives, with the freedom to stay as long as they need, providing stability and a chance to break the cycle of homelessness.
We were thrilled to welcome Mary to our charity. Her visit gave us the chance to highlight our work and the difference long-term support can make. Having our local MP’s support is invaluable as we continue to make a lasting impact in the community.