Local charity Emmaus Merseyside is appealing for help during the current coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis to ensure its support of formerly homeless people continues.

Emmaus Merseyside provides a home, work and individual support to people who have experienced homelessness. The temporary closure of Emmaus Merseyside’s charity stores due to the coronavirus shutdown poses a significant risk to the charity.

Gary, one of the people supported at Emmaus Merseyside, said: “I would have been on the streets if it wasn’t for Emmaus Merseyside. This support I’ve received has been incalculable. Please donate to our appeal to help keep us going.”

Emmaus Merseyside supports formerly homeless people by providing a home for as long as someone needs it, meaningful work, training and ongoing individual support. Emmaus operates three charity stores across the city region with all the money raised used to help people out of homelessness.

As well as providing work and personal development opportunities for companions (beneficiaries of the charity), Emmaus Merseyside’s charity stores also generate the majority of the funds needed to sustain the charity.

Honora Crisp, Business Manager at Emmaus Merseyside, said: “Like everyone else, our community members are staying at home to keep everyone safe. Our charity stores may be closed but the support we offer to formerly homeless people continues.

“It is vital we do all we can to ensure everyone’s wellbeing and keep a roof over their head. We know it’s tough for everyone at the moment, but any gift you can spare will help us get through these difficult times. If you can, please help by donating to  Emmaus Merseyside to enable us to continue our vital work during the current COVID-19 emergency and beyond.”

Find out more and pledge your support to the Emmaus Merseyside Coronavirus Emergency Appeal.