On Thursday 14 December, four OAFC players and two staff members took a tour of the Emmaus Mossley community and social enterprise at Longlands Mill. The guests chatted to formerly homeless people who live and work at the charity, presented certificates and dropped off eight bags and boxes of items donated by the club and supporters as part of their Christmas appeal.
“It was a great visit and nice to welcome the players and staff to our Mossley community. It was good for the players to see first-hand what Emmaus is about and it seemed like they appreciate what we do for the wider community.
“I would like to thank all the players, staff and supporters of Oldham Athletic for their valuable support this year and hope our relationship continues to grow.” Darren, companion at Emmaus Mossley
OAFC have supported Emmaus Mossley throughout 2017 with donations, visits to the club and player tours of the charity’s community base. Emmaus is also receiving support from Mossley Association Football Club who are running their own collection for the charity.
The partnerships have helped to inspire weekly five-a-side football sessions, improving the health and wellbeing of Emmaus Mossley’s community members.
“It’s an unbelievable place and it’s a big eye opener. There are so many people at Emmaus that are so helpful and considerate of others.
“You only have to drive around most areas, especially cities to see how many homeless people there are, but the work they do at Emmaus Mossley is helping people on the streets and they’re doing a really good job.” Craig Davies, OAFC striker
The partnership between OAFC and Emmaus Mossley is part of the club’s outreach work in the community. Using the power of football, Oldham Athletic Community Trust works with groups and organisations to provide positive opportunities through sport to inspire the local community.
“It is great to see that our partnership is creating positive opportunities for people in the local community and the surrounding areas.
“It was also great to be given a tour, I know the players learnt a lot from visiting Emmaus Mossley, particularly about what vital work they do and how much of an impact they have on helping people.” Wendy Noble, Oldham Athletic Community Trust Operations Manager
Emmaus Mossley supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. The charity runs a social enterprise in Mossley, selling donated and upcycled furniture, household goods, clothes, bric-a-brac and vintage wares.
To find out more or support Emmaus Mossley head to www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01457 838608 or visit the store at Longlands Mill, Queen Street, Mossley OL5 9AH.