The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Diane Hawkins JP DL, has visited homelessness charity Emmaus South Manchester to tour their social enterprise in Wythenshawe.
On Thursday 25 November, the High Sheriff visited the Emmaus South Manchester Emporium located within St Andrew’s Methodist Church. Mrs Hawkins toured the charity store and workshops with Mark Booth, Project Leader, and trustees of the charity.
Commenting on the visit, Mrs Hawkins, said: “This is such an impressive project. I have been aware of Emmaus for a number of years and the work they do is quite incredible. The progress which Emmaus South Manchester has made since August is remarkable and their plans for the future are inspirational. I am looking forward to seeing how they move forwards and I know that they will have a real impact upon people experiencing homelessness in South Manchester.”
The Emmaus South Manchester Emporium opened in August with the aim of raising funds to open an Emmaus community to support people experiencing homelessness and those suffering social exclusion. In only four months, the store has become a treasure trove for local residents and people from further afield, hunting for affordable vintage and retro items.
The Emporium has its own on-site workshops, where textiles and furniture are upcycled and restored, and also has a Community Café serving drinks and light refreshments. The charity’s longer-term aim is to offer workshops and training so that local people can gain the skills to reuse items and make their own bespoke products.
Frances Hirst, Chair of Emmaus South Manchester, said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester to our Emporium charity store and introduce her to our team and volunteers. Mrs Hawkins was already aware of Emmaus and took a genuine interest in our exciting plans to help people affected by homelessness and social exclusion.”
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. To find out more or get involved as a volunteer with Emmaus South Manchester visit: https://emmaus.org.uk/south-manchester