On Monday 7 May, Seel Park, home to Mossley A.F.C., played host to the Emmaus Charity Football Match between an Emmaus XI and a Chaddy the Owl XI. More than 100 spectators watched the game and enjoyed the Bank Holiday sunshine in support of the fundraiser.
“It was a great day and I was proud of all the communities involved. The heat was exhausting and tiring but we pulled together and had fun for a good cause. Thanks to Oldham Athletic Football Ball and Mossley A.F.C for supporting the event.” Darren Bateman, companion of Emmaus Mossley and team captain of the Emmaus XI
Oldham Athletic FC has supported Emmaus Mossley for the past two years with donations, visits to the club and player tours of the charity’s community base at Longlands Mill in Mossley. The partnership has helped to inspire weekly football training sessions, improving the health and wellbeing of Emmaus Mossley’s community members.
Emmaus communities support formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. Each Emmaus runs different social enterprises, providing work and development opportunities whilst generating income to sustain the work of the charity.
The Emmaus team consisted of formerly homeless people who are now supported by Emmaus communities in Burnley, Preston, Mossley and Salford. Each Emmaus community has their own five-a-side football team but the players united for this match to train and play as an eleven-a-side team.
“The match was a real challenge in the Bank Holiday Monday heat but all the players did very well and I am extremely proud of everyone who took part. I would like to give special thanks to Oldham Athletic Football Club, Mossley A.F.C., the stewards and all the people who came out to support this fundraiser.” Harry Barlow, Community Leader at Emmaus Mossley
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.