The Member of Parliament for Preston, Mark Hendrick, has visited Emmaus Preston to learn more about the work of the charity and find out about current homelessness issues.
On Monday 6 March, Mark met with companions – people supported by Emmaus Preston – as well as staff members at the Emmaus Preston Megastore. Emmaus Preston supports formerly homeless people by offering a home, meaningful work in a social enterprise and an opportunity to get back on their feet again.
Mark Hendrick, MP for Preston, said: “I have followed the great work that Emmaus have done in the City to reduce homelessness over the years. This latest venture provides meaningful work and a focus to vulnerable people as well as providing a great recycling facility which benefits everyone in Preston. I’d encourage anyone getting rid of large furniture items to consider donating them to charities like Emmaus before taking them to the tip.”
Mark had a tour of the Emmaus Preston Megastore, talked to companions at the charity and learned more about homelessness support services in the area.
Stephen Buchanan, Director at Emmaus Preston, said: “Mark has been a great supporter of Emmaus Preston, already writing on our behalf to Lord Freud in regard to Welfare Reform. It was important to talk about issues that will affect us in the future with changes to Housing Benefit as well as show him how we generate our money so companions do not need to claim work benefits.”
Emmaus Preston operates three social enterprises in Preston with all the money raised in used to support the community of formerly homeless people. Companions work in all areas of the Emmaus Preston social enterprise and community, gaining valuable skills and experience whilst making a direct contribution to the sustainability and success of the charity.
If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01772 796622 or visit the Emmaus Preston Megastore on Brookfield Street or Deepdale Mill Street Superstore.