Emmaus Cambridge provides a home and meaningful work for up to 34 people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion, offering them an alternative route out of homelessness and a fantastic way of life within a supportive environment. Companions (formerly homeless people) work full time while they are at Emmaus selling and upcycling second-hand furniture and household items at its Landbeach charity shop. The income generated through Emmaus’ shops goes straight back into the community and enables companions to develop skills, rebuild their self-respect and help others in greater need than themselves.
On arrival, Mayer was greeted by Diane Docherty, Community Director at Emmaus Cambridge, and Matthew Last, one of the charity’s trustees. The group were able to take a leisurely stroll around the wonderful gardens, lovingly tended to by the companions before having a hot drink in Joan’s coffee shop. Ms Mayer also met the community’s chickens, and latest resident; Betty, the large black pig.
Speaking of the politician’s recent visit, Diane Docherty said:“It was a pleasure to host Alex and give her a tour of our community. She was very interested in the work we do here, and how things may change post Brexit. We’re hoping to welcome her back next year to discuss this further.”
Emmaus Cambridge is going to add 10 rooms to its thriving community next year, helping to improve the lives of even more former homeless people. They will be starting to fund raise in October 2017.
Image: (L-R) Diane Docherty,Matthew Last, Alex Mayer MEP
About Emmaus Cambridge
Emmaus Cambridge supports up to 34 formerly homeless people by giving them a home, meaningful work in a social enterprise and an opportunity to regain lost self-esteem to help rebuild their lives.
There are currently 29 Emmaus communities across the country, supporting more than 750 companions (formerly homeless people) in the UK. In addition there are four Emmaus groups, all of which are working towards setting up an Emmaus community in their area. Emmaus aims to offer 1,000 companion places by 2020.
Social enterprise is central to the Emmaus model as it provides meaningful work for companions but also generates funding to maintain communities. Companions living in Emmaus communities are expected to sign off all benefits, with the exception of housing benefit, which is used to help to support the community. The rest of the funding that is needed is generated through social enterprise and fundraising.
Emmaus communities deliver a significant return on investment. Research shows that for every £1 invested in a community, there is an £11 return, with savings to the benefits bill, health services and a reduction in crime reoffending.
To find out more visit www.emmaus.org.uk/cambridge
Social media: @Emmauscambridge / facebook.com/emmauscambridge