Emmaus Hampshire has celebrated its 15th anniversary with a service at Winchester Cathedral. 250 guests packed the Cathedral Quire on Friday 18th October 2024.
The service marked the charity’s success in rebuilding the lives of its formerly homeless residents, called Companions, along with its sustainability and contribution to the city, past, present and future.
Alison Thompson, founder of Emmaus Hampshire spoke about the charity’s foundation. She said, ““It is a joy to welcome so many of you here today who helped to make our Emmaus Community a reality. Ten years in the making and 15 years of success, it is indeed something to celebrate.”
The service was led by The Reverend Canon Roland Riem, Vice-Dean and Canon Chancellor, in the company of the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Surgeon Rear Admiral Lionel Jarvis.
Readings, reminiscences and video highlighted the contribution Emmaus Hampshire has made to the city over the past 15 years in terms of:
- Solidarity – projects devised by the Companions to support the city’s disadvantaged residents
- Restitution of former Companions – providing the move into secure jobs, independent living and a brighter future
- Contribution of long-term Companions – who put more into the community than they receive
- Environmental protection – Emmaus’ social enterprise saved 458,000 kilos of CO2e in one year
The environmental impact of Emmaus’ operations were brought vibrantly to life with a pop-up catwalk show of reused fashion orchestrated by Winchester-based personal stylist, Sarah Sullivan.
Chief Executive Nigel Samuels said, “The best people to resolve the issues of homelessness are those who have lived experienced. Given structure and support, they have the drive and skills to deliver their own solutions. Our next big project is to create a Wellbeing Centre for Companions; we are still seeking £50,000 to complete the funding for a launch next summer.”
The service was followed by a reception in the North Transept in the company of Emmaus UK President, Sir Terry Waite, while Cordelectra provided a musical backdrop.
Surgeon Rear Admiral Lionel Jarvis, Deputy Lieutenant of Hampshire talks to Emmaus President, Sir Terry Waite after the service.