Health and addiction service Recovery4life donates hand sanitiser to Emmaus North East to ensure companions and staff have enough during the current coronavirus outbreak.

The Gateshead-based business specialises in drug, alcohol and mental health services and offered support to Emmaus North East after the temporary closure of its two charity shops in Hebburn and Low Fell following government advice.

Emmaus North East currently supports 15 people who have experienced homelessness or social exclusion. To fund its work, Emmaus sells second-hand furniture, household items and much more in its two shops, however, is now losing vital funding.

John Harrison, Community Manager at Emmaus North East, said:

“On behalf of everyone at Emmaus North East, I would like to thank John at Recovery4life for the kind donation of hand sanitiser, which is very much needed in the current situation. It has been increasingly difficult to find everything we need in local supermarkets, especially for the amount of people we are supporting.

“Our residents are staying at home and we’re trying to keep everyone safe. Our shops are 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. That is why we are so grateful for support from local businesses and individuals who kindly donate items to our community and Lucie’s Pantry, or make a donation to our online fundraising appeal.”

Lucie’s Pantry, which is the social supermarket run by Emmaus North East, is still operating for people who are struggling to afford food for themselves and their families. Members of Lucie’s Pantry pay £2.50 a week in return for food and essentials up to the value of £15.

John Devitt, CEO at Recovery4life said: “Our business wanted to put something back into local services that are supporting the most vulnerable. Emmaus North East is one of the best organisations within the homelessness sector and we urge anyone to support them in any way they can.”

Emmaus North East is accepting donations of tins, pasta, long life items and household cleaning items for Lucie’s Pantry. For businesses or individuals able to donate items, call 0191 497 5302 or email [email protected] to arrange a contact free collection or drop off.

To donate to the Emmaus North East fundraising appeal, visit www.emmaus.org.uk/north-east/covid19-appeal.