A number of high-profile guests have visited homelessness charity Emmaus Salford to learn more about their work and meet with formerly homeless people supported by the charity.
Emmaus Salford welcomed a variety of guests including Warren J. Smith, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and Salford MP, Rebecca Long Bailey. The open house event was an opportunity for representatives from the public, voluntary and faith sectors to learn more about the charitable work of Emmaus Salford.
Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Warren Smith, a patron of Emmaus Salford, said: “I would like to thank and congratulate the trustees, management and the companions for their very warm welcome. I was extremely impressed by the whole project and what a warm and inviting place it is. Emmaus Salford is a remarkable charity that cares for and respects people (and they do good cakes too).”
Emmaus Salford supports formerly homeless people (known as companions) by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. Guests at the open house event were given tours of the Emmaus Salford community and an opportunity to chat with companions, trustees and staff.
Jenni Bottomley, one of the companions who lives and works at Emmaus Salford, said: “It was a brilliant day and a fantastic opportunity meeting many different people. It was great to be able to connect with other local organisations so we can work together to help even more people across Salford.”
Emmaus Salford operates charity shops at Fitzwarren Street and Seaford Road in Salford, as well as the Emmaus Emporium in Swinton. These shops raise an income to help sustain the charity whilst providing Salford residents with a source of good quality, affordable furniture, household goods, clothes, textiles, books and vintage wares.
Hilary Dunn, Chair of Emmaus Salford, said: “We were delighted that so many people gave up their time to visit the Emmaus Salford community. As well as showcasing our positive work and discussing future challenges, the event was as much to find out how the Emmaus community can support wider initiatives across Salford.”
