Charity begins at home to help those overseas

Emmaus - a charity which supports formerly homeless people by giving them a place to live and work in large-scale charity shops - believes that the concept of 'solidarity' - or giving to others who are more in need than yourself - is intrinsic to its success.

As part of an international movement which has 337 members in 37 countries, the charity often looks to its groups overseas to see what help can be offered. Last year, the charity raised over £400,000 on its sale days across the country, helping projects in America, Europe, Africa and India. Programmes supported included building classrooms in Burkina Faso, supporting those affected by human trafficking in Lithuania and fixing homes damaged by hurricanes in India.

Andy Jones, who moved to Emmaus Leeds after a relationship breakdown, explains what 'solidarity' means to him: “Many people who come to live in Emmaus communities have had a hard time. We have all lost our homes and often companions have struggled with mental health issues, financial problems or addictions.

“But solidarity work reminds us that there are people suffering all over the world. I feel that if I can do something to help others, to give a little bit back, then it really takes my mind off my own troubles. It also gives me that warm glow that comes from the knowledge that I am doing something that will really help someone else.”

The following communities and groups across the UK will hold sales, with many offering discounts on their vintage goods and secondhand furniture: Bolton, Bristol, Cambridge, Colchester, Glasgow, Greenwich, Hull, Lambeth, Leeds, Leicestershire & Rutland, Mossley, Norwich, Oxford, Preston, Salford, South Wales, St Albans, St Martins and Village Carlton.

Helen Jago, community leader at Emmaus Village Carlton in Bedfordshire, said: “One of the conditions of Emmaus membership is that every community across the world must raise money through solidarity. This even includes the poorest communities in Africa.

“Although this may seem counterintuitive, we believe that working together to help each other is valuable in itself. However, we can’t raise funds without holding solidarity sales and other events – so we need as many people to come along as possible and grab some wonderful bargains to brighten up their homes and gardens.”

Staff and companions from Emmaus communities across the UK also volunteered nearly 4500 hours of their own time to help local people and other good causes, over the last year.

Image: An Emmaus International school in Burkina Faso.

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For more information, interviews with Andy Jones, or photos contact Jane Carmichael, media officer for Emmaus UK on 01223 379260 / [email protected]
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