“Finding Emmaus has given me back my life, and I’ll forever be grateful.”
An appeal from Leigh
Being homeless was one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced, but finding Emmaus has been life changing.
Before Emmaus, I was struggling to pay the bills, struggling to keep everything going, so eventually the bailiffs turned up and kicked me out.
I sofa surfed with friends and family for a few months but I didn’t want to be a burden, so decided to start living on the streets.
It’s so tough being homeless; I wouldn’t wish it on anybody. It’s a scary world out there. Being with Emmaus has helped me out a lot. It brings a sense of peace and security, knowing I’ve got a roof over my head and I’m working for it.
Spending a few Christmases on my own was difficult, because Christmas is generally for families isn’t it? But now I’m in Emmaus, I’ve got people to spend it with.
I’ll see my family at Christmas, but the companions and the staff at Emmaus are now part of my family too. They’re my extended family.
We have a Christmas tree at Emmaus – a small one, nothing extravagant! And we’ll do a Christmas meal. We all chip in with preparing and cooking and cleaning up afterwards.
When I was growing up it was always a tradition to open one present on Christmas Eve. I’ve always remembered that.
We don’t get presents here, but that night before, even if you buy yourself something and wrap it up, it’s just nice to open something. It’s a tradition that’s stuck with me.
Your donations have had a real impact on me and others who have experienced homelessness. Thank you for supporting Emmaus and bringing hope to people who need it most.
Leigh, Emmaus companion
An appeal from Filipe
Finding Emmaus has given me back my life, and I’ll forever be grateful.
Life on the streets is a dark and lonely place, especially around Christmas. I didn’t have any friends. I had five Christmases on the streets, struggling with depression, anxiety and addiction.
It’s a hard life on the streets. I was so scared. I went into a very dark place. I tried to end myself five times, but there was always someone to save my life. It was not my time to go.
Emmaus has changed my life. They helped me to get free of my addictions and they support me with everything I need.
I didn’t even have documents, but Emmaus supported me in getting my ID and driver’s licence. This was so important to me. Before I was no one; I knew my name, but I couldn’t prove who I was.
But since I moved to Emmaus, it’s like I’ve found my family. We decorate the house and we all cook together. We all share Christmas, like a family.
I also have my sister here in England; I’m planning to see her this Christmas and hopefully my mum will come over from Portugal, too.
Emmaus saved my life. I never thought I was going to reach 50 years old, but I did here at Emmaus. I work in one of the shops now, and I’m happy.
I do what I can to help Emmaus, to give back, because it’s helped me a lot. It’s not about taking, you have to give as well.
Your support made all this possible. This Christmas, I’m asking for your help to give others the chance I had. Thank you.
Filipe, Emmaus companion
You can make a difference this Christmas.
Your regular donation will help us to provide a home, training and meaningful work experience to people experiencing homelessness and social exclusion.
Thank you.
You can make a difference this Christmas.
Your donation will help us to provide a home, training and meaningful work experience to people experiencing homelessness and social exclusion.
Thank you.