At Emmaus Leeds, we are proud to work alongside organisations that share our values and are passionate about making a real difference. One of our standout partners is Grainger PLC, the UK’s largest landlord. We recently spoke with Corinne Lawrenson, Senior Resident Services Associate at Grainger, to learn more about how they’ve been supporting Emmaus Leeds and why our partnership means so much to them.
A shared mission to end homelessness
Grainger first connected with Emmaus Leeds in 2023, driven by a desire to support a local homelessness charity that aligned with their core values. As Corinne explained:
“As the UK’s largest landlord, we felt a strong responsibility to support a homelessness charity. It’s an issue close to our hearts. We believe that everyone deserves the right to a safe and happy home.”
In their search for local charities in Leeds, Emmaus stood out to the Grainger team for our community-focused approach. The way companions live, volunteer, and support each other, combined with the meaningful employment opportunities offered through our shop and social enterprise model, deeply resonated with them.
Making a meaningful impact
Since our partnership began, Grainger has embraced a wide range of activities to support our community and raise awareness among their residents.
Their team has placed Emmaus Leeds posters—complete with donation QR codes—throughout their Leeds buildings, The Headline and Pin Yard. They’ve also added links to donation and furniture collection services in move-out emails, helping residents give unwanted items a new home through our reuse efforts.
Grainger has organised regular food and toiletry drives at their reception desks, with team members personally delivering donations to our site. They’ve also rolled up their sleeves and volunteered at our Leeds shop, helping sort donated goods and prepare items for sale.
“At resident events, we always promote Emmaus Leeds—displaying QR codes and engaging in conversations to inspire contributions of all sizes,” said Corinne.
The Grainger team’s commitment extends beyond the office too. Recently, they raised around £460 through a charity walk to Pen-Y-Ghent, proudly wearing Emmaus T-shirts. Their largest donation so far—an amazing £1,539—came from Grainger and their investors.
Moments that matter
For Corinne and her colleagues, volunteering at Emmaus has been especially rewarding.
“It’s always lovely to visit the site and meet the team. Everyone is super friendly, and it’s heartwarming to see how many people are being supported. We love seeing the guys in the vans who come for collections—they’re always laughing and joking! I’ve even asked if we could join them for a day sometime. I bet it would be a great laugh.”
Living their values
Grainger’s support for Emmaus Leeds is a powerful reflection of their company values: Every home matters, People at the heart, Leading the way, and Exceeding expectations.
“Our support goes beyond donations,” Corinne shared. “We love getting stuck in through volunteering and fundraising. These moments allow us to build real connections with the Emmaus team and be part of something bigger. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our efforts are making a genuine difference in people’s lives.”
Looking to the future
Looking ahead, Grainger has exciting plans to deepen their involvement. Their upcoming Summer Social event—a vibrant gathering featuring a DJ, food, and games—will raise funds for Emmaus, with residents encouraged to donate to take part.
They’re also keen to expand volunteering opportunities, ensuring more team members get the chance to experience the impact of our work firsthand.
A word of encouragement
We ask what Grainger’s advice would be to other companies considering working with a charity like Emmaus Leeds. Corinne said:
“Being part of this cause is truly rewarding. There are so many ways to make a difference, whether big or small. Even simple actions—like posters or donation links—can have an impact. The Emmaus Leeds team are fantastic, and we’re excited to keep building on this relationship.”
Thank you, Grainger
We’re incredibly grateful to Corinne and the entire Grainger team for their continued support, generosity, and enthusiasm. Partnerships like these help us to do more for our companions and to build stronger, more compassionate communities.
From everyone at Emmaus Leeds—thank you for walking alongside us.
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