Formerly homeless people supported by Emmaus Leeds have hosted a successful Christmas event for elderly people supported by Burmantofts Senior Action.
On Sunday 10th December, 23 members of Burmantofts Senior Action (BSA) 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.
Tony, companion at Emmaus Leeds, said: “Sunday was thoroughly enjoyable and I would love to take part in an event like this again. It was good for the younger generation to be able to meet and entertain some of the older people from our local community and show them that they have not been forgotten.”
This annual event is an opportunity for Emmaus companions to volunteer and support elderly members of the local community. After the home-cooked Christmas dinner, Emmaus companions chatted to the BSA members and hosted a range of fun and festive activities including a raffle and a few rounds of bingo.
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: “It is my sixth year volunteering at this annual event and I always look forward to it. It was particularly nice this year after a recent refurbishment we were able to bring our guests upstairs into the heart of our community for the very first time. The companions who volunteered their time to cook and serve the food did an amazing job and received a huge applause from our guests who really appreciated their efforts.”
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.
To find out more about Emmaus Leeds visit www.emmaus.org.uk/leeds. For more information, to make a donation or get involved call 0113 248 4288 or visit Emmaus Leeds at St Mary’s Street, Leeds, LS9 7DP.