On Friday 6 May, The Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Tommy Judge, and the Lady Mayoress visited the Emmaus South Manchester Emporium.
In one of the last visits of his mayoral term, the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress were introduced to the Emmaus South Manchester team and took a tour of our Emporium charity store, Community Café and social enterprise workshops.
The Lord Mayor of Manchester, Cllr Judge, said: “We had a wonderful visit to the Emmaus project where we met volunteers, staff and trustees. We were shown the work they do to help some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, and heard about their future plans to redevelop the building they are in.”
Emmaus South Manchester is currently working to build the support and funds needed to establish a new Emmaus community in Manchester. Emmaus communities support people who have experienced homelessness by providing a home, work experience, individual support and an opportunity for a fresh start in life.
Mark Booth, Project Leader at Emmaus South Manchester, said: “We discussed our plans to create a community hub that will support those suffering homelessness, social exclusion, and financial hardship.
“Our charity store offers a treasure trove of high-quality furniture, clothing, and household items at fantastic prices. The money raised will help to create a home and opportunities for 20 previously homeless people.”
There are currently 29 Emmaus communities across the UK, supporting more than 850 formerly homeless people. Unlike other organisations, Emmaus communities don’t just offer a bed for the night. Instead, they provide a home and companionship for as long as someone needs it, as well as support, training and meaningful work in a social enterprise.
The Emmaus South Manchester Emporium is open Thursday to Saturday, 10am-4pm, and located at the junction of Brownley Road and Simonsway. Find out more about our plans or get involved as a volunteer at the store.