New homelessness charity Emmaus South Manchester is appealing for volunteers to get involved and help drive the charity forward.
Emmaus South Manchester aims to support homeless people and those suffering deprivation and social exclusion in the local area.
Volunteers are needed at the charity’s base at St. Andrews Church in Wythenshawe or as remote volunteers from home.
Mark Booth, Local Champion for Emmaus South Manchester, said: “This year our social enterprise has really gathered pace, so we urgently need more hands to the pump.
“We’re looking for people with time, skills and passion to spare, and want to help drive the Emmaus South Manchester charity forward.”
The charity has a variety of roles on offer including furniture workshop volunteers, van drivers and trustees.
Anyone interested in the roles will need good people skills and commit to volunteering at least one day per week.
The social enterprise produces items from reclaimed materials, diverting waste from landfill and also generating an income to support the charity.
Mr Booth is excited about the charity’s latest textiles upcycling project Bear Mail, where volunteers are needed to help cut fabric and create bear making packs.
The charity is also hoping to open a new charity shop soon.
There are currently 29 Emmaus communities across the country, supporting more than 850 formerly homeless people in the UK.
Emmaus hopes to deliver a return on investment with research showing that for every £1 invested in a community, there is an £11 return, with savings to health services and a reduction in crime reoffending.
Emma Sidlow, trustee and volunteer at Emmaus South Manchester, said: “Before becoming a charity trustee or volunteering you worry at first that it’s going to take up too much time.
“In reality though, people are flexible and there’s no pressure to deliver more than you can. I wish I’d done this sooner because I’m learning new skills, gaining new responsibilities and actually I’m really enjoying it.”
Emmaus South Manchester’s aim is to create a new community that will support people who have experienced homelessness. The community will provide people with a home, training, work experience, individual support and an opportunity for a fresh start in life.
To find out more or get involved as a volunteer with Emmaus visit: https://emmaus.org.uk/south-manchester
