Emmaus is calling on people to join a big Uprising of Kindness and make a positive difference to others. The #BeMoreKind campaign is highlighting the extraordinary power of kindness and the simple ways in which small acts can make a big difference.
Erin, who was living in a hostel after sofa surfing, when an Advice Worker told her about Emmaus. Their kindness enabled her to make a fresh start and begin to get back on her feet. Speaking about that act of kindness, she said: “They were a good support for me at the time. They were someone you could trust and put your faith into a little bit.”
Now, Erin is training to be a Support Worker at Emmaus North East, where she helps others who are experiencing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion. She said:
“It feels so good to help others who need it. I’m joining the Uprising of Kindness to spread the #BeMoreKind message and let everyone know about the amazing things Emmaus has to offer.”
Six ways you can join the campaign
The #BeMoreKind campaign focuses on six key kindness themes that anyone can get involved with. From ordinary acts of kindness to taking on bigger challenges, there is something for everyone.
#BeMoreKind to the environment
Emmaus strives to be as sustainable as possible to reduce our impact on the environment by recycling, repurposing and reselling preloved items. Last year, Emmaus social enterprises saved more than 4,000 tonnes of goods from going to landfill.
Our campaign pack contains ideas for how you can get involved by being more kind to the environment.
#BeMoreKind to homeless people and others in need
The number of people experiencing homelessness is rising and can feel overwhelming. But there are ways we can all make a difference. Thanks to the kindness of our supporters, Emmaus communities helped over 6,500 people last year with accommodation, support services, outreach work and solidarity.
Every time you donate to Emmaus or shop at an Emmaus charity shop or social enterprise, you’re helping sustain that work and enabling us to welcome more people into an Emmaus community.
#BeMoreKind to yourself
Self-care is a vital way of looking after your physical and mental wellbeing and by signing up to a challenge event, you can boost your physical fitness and help others at the same time. See how you can get involved with a challenge.
#BeMoreKind… Show gratitude
One of the simplest ways we can be kind to others, and to ourselves, is to show gratitude. Saying thank you to someone who has helped you lets them know you appreciate their support. And learning to be grateful for the things we have in our lives helps to build contentment and happiness.
We’re using our national Day of Action on February 1 as an opportunity to say thank you to Emmaus supporters.
#BeMoreKind to your community
Supporting your community is a powerful way to make a difference to people in your area.
Across Emmaus communities and groups, volunteers make a positive impact every day in a range of ways. From helping in a shop to upcycling furniture, and volunteering as a Trustee, there are lots of ways to get involved. Find volunteering opportunities near you.
Emmaus communities and groups also spread kindness in their local areas through outreach, community support, and acts of solidarity. Companions often choose to fundraise for local charities close to their hearts. Find out more about solidarity at Emmaus.
#BeMoreKind… Spread kindness
The more acts of kindness we do, the more that kindness spreads and makes a positive difference. Get involved by sharing our #BeMoreKind message on social media or by sharing your own stories of kindness.
Join the campaign
We have lots of resources to help you join the campaign and #BeMoreKind. Click here to find out more and sign up for supporter resources.