Community members from Emmaus Leeds have prepared and hosted a Christmas meal for elderly people supported by Burmantofts Senior Action.
On Sunday 9 December, more than 20 members of Burmantofts Senior Action (BSA) aged tucked in to a three-course Christmas meal at Emmaus Leeds. The meal was prepared and served by five companions – formerly homeless people who now live and work at Emmaus Leeds.
This annual event is an opportunity for Emmaus companions to volunteer and support elderly members of the local community. The concept of solidarity and helping others less fortunate than yourself is a central ethos of Emmaus and a motivation for the companions hosting the meal for BSA.
Julie Lofthouse, Charity Support Project Worker at BSA, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to the staff and volunteers who give up their own time to put on such a wonderful and positive event (yet again) at this time of year. Fantastic communication between both the charities and it’s always a pleasure to work with Emmaus. We hope everyone has a very happy Christmas & New Year!”
Burmantofts Senior Action is a local charity, providing support for elderly people living independently in their homes throughout many communities in Leeds. They also offer support services and community events to give people opportunities to socialise.
Joanne Stafford, Projects & Events Leader at Emmaus Leeds, said: “This annual event is always something that the Emmaus Leeds community look forward to. It’s an opportunity for the people we support to give something back to the local community as an act of solidarity. Very well done and thank you to all of the Emmaus companions who volunteered their time to cook and serve the food for BSA.”
Emmaus Leeds supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a stable home and meaningful work for as long as they need it. The charity has its main base at St Mary’s Street where they sell donated furniture, clothes, books, bikes, household goods and upcycled products.
Find out more about the work of Emmaus Leeds. For more information, to donate an item or get involved as a volunteer call 0113 248 4288 or visit Emmaus Leeds at St Mary’s Street, Leeds, LS9 7DP.