We celebrated our ten years of serving the local community at an open day attended by a very special guest.
President of Emmaus UK, writer and broadcaster Terry Waite welcomed well wishers and supporters to our store and community home on Whitworth Road in Hastings. In his welcome speech, Terry thanked the many local businesses that have supported Emmaus Hastings & Rother over the years.
Terry Waite said: “Old hostels for homeless people were far from adequate. People would come in for food and a bed at night, but just be sent back out in the morning. I used to think ‘surely there must be a better model?’ and then I heard about Emmaus. Emmaus is part of the local community.”
Local dignitary the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex Sara Stonor DL was also in attendance, and received a tour of our facilities at the community.
The local Old Town Ukulele group serenaded attendees with a collection of pop songs, and tea, coffee and cakes were available for visitors.
Community Manager Zach Hurst said: “It has been great to have this chance to celebrate over ten years of serving the community here at Emmaus Hastings & Rother. More importantly, it was also a fantastic opportunity to thank all the amazing people that make what we do, happen every day. From the companions who put so much into the community, to the staff and volunteers, and all the incredible donors, funders and supporters we have – we are very lucky, and grateful to everyone.”