About Emmaus South Lambeth
Emmaus South Lambeth: A Community Working Together to End Homelessness
Emmaus South Lambeth is a UK-based charity and community that aims to end homelessness by providing support, accommodation, and meaningful work opportunities for people who have experienced homelessness. The organization was founded in 1992 and has since then been working tirelessly to help those in need.
The Emmaus movement began in France after the Second World War when a priest named Abbé Pierre saw the plight of homeless people on the streets of Paris. He decided to take action by providing them with shelter, food, and work. This idea soon spread across Europe, and today there are over 350 Emmaus communities worldwide.
At Emmaus South Lambeth, the focus is on creating a supportive environment where people can rebuild their lives. The community provides accommodation for up to 28 companions (as residents are called) who live together in shared houses or flats. Each companion has their own room but shares communal spaces such as kitchens and living rooms.
In addition to housing, companions receive support from staff members who help them access healthcare services, education opportunities, training courses or employment advice. They also receive an allowance which covers their basic needs such as food and clothing.
One of the unique aspects of Emmaus South Lambeth is its social enterprise model which generates income for the community while also providing meaningful work opportunities for companions. The organization runs several businesses including a second-hand furniture shop called "The Living Room", an eBay store selling donated items online called "Emmaus Direct" as well as gardening services through "Green Fingers".
Companions are encouraged to get involved in these businesses according to their interests or skills so they can gain valuable experience while earning money at the same time. This approach helps build confidence and self-esteem while also preparing them for future employment outside of Emmaus if they choose.
Another important aspect of Emmaus South Lambeth's work is its commitment to sustainability. The organization promotes recycling by collecting unwanted items from households across London which are then sold through its shops or recycled if not suitable for resale.
Overall, Emmaus South Lambeth's mission is clear: To provide practical support that helps people overcome homelessness while also promoting social inclusion through meaningful work opportunities within a supportive community setting.
How You Can Help
There are many ways you can get involved with supporting Emmaus South Lambeth's mission:
1) Donate - You can donate money directly via their website or donate goods such as furniture or clothing which will be sold through one of their shops.
2) Volunteer - There are various volunteering roles available including helping out at one of their shops or assisting with gardening tasks.
3) Shop - By purchasing items from one of their shops you're not only supporting local business but also contributing towards ending homelessness.
4) Spread Awareness - Share information about Emmaus South Lambeth on social media platforms like Facebook & Twitter so more people know about this amazing charity.
Conclusion
Emmaus South Lambert is doing incredible work towards ending homelessness by providing practical support that helps individuals rebuild their lives within a supportive community setting whilst promoting sustainability through recycling initiatives & generating income via social enterprises like second-hand furniture shop 'The Living Room'. With your help we can continue making positive changes towards ending homelessness!