Before Emmaus, I was on the streets for a year and a half and then sofa surfing for about six months. I decided then that I needed to change my life and get on the right track.
Being homeless is tough. Having a tent, a sleeping bag, waiting for the next meal, and now and again, people used to chuck money at me, sometimes food. I’d never go hungry but living that way takes its toll.
When I was sofa surfing, I went to a hostel and they mentioned Emmaus. I did some research, sent an application form and then got a call from Emmaus Preston offering me a room. I got the train up there from Manchester, had a chat with one of the support workers and she offered me a place straight away. That was probably the best feeling I had since before I was homeless on the streets.
A change of scenery
I moved to Emmaus Merseyside in January 2022 and being part of this community is the best feeling ever. I know I’m on the right track. Whilst I’ve been with Emmaus, I’ve done plenty of training including the portable appliance testing course, warehousing course, customer services course and bike maintenance course. I’m looking forward to doing another bike maintenance course later this year.
Through the day, I’m usually at our Charity Superstore in the warehouse or on the shop floor. I like to rearrange items in the shop and we usually do a big change in layout twice a year. I also do the office from time to time – booking collections, answering emails and posting pictures on Facebook. I love the mix of roles I do at Emmaus and the change of scenery. It’s an amazing atmosphere and amazing people – companions, volunteers, staff and customers.
Thank you to everyone who supports Emmaus. We all appreciate the support we receive from people who donate items and the customers who shop with us. Without the donations and customers, we’d just be an empty shop. I do appreciate the staff at Emmaus as well because they do a lot and same with the volunteers too.
It doesn’t matter where you’re from, who you are or what you are, there’s always a place for everyone at Emmaus. They will be a guiding light to you and can help with so much. You’ve just got to ask.