Call for help from homeless charity with Hinckley base

A HINCKLEY-based charity is calling on residents to donate their time to help formerly homeless people turn their lives around.

Emmaus Leicestershire and Rutland is looking for new volunteers to help out in their Emporium shop on Stockwell Head, which raises vital funds for the charity.

The campaign is part of National Volunteers’ Week, which runs from June 1 until June 7, and celebrates the contribution made by the millions of volunteers across the UK.

Hinckley resident Lyn Truman volunteers in the Emmaus Emporium every week, and said: “I first heard about Emmaus when a member of the public asked me where it was.

“I had never heard of it so I walked around Hinckley until I found it.

“I was amazed at how big the Emporium is and how much stuff was in there.

“I had never really been much of a charity shop shopper but this really blew me away. The more I learnt from talking to the companions and staff, the more I loved what this charity stood for.

“When I first started volunteering in the shop I helped out with the bric-a-brac, but over time I’ve been pulled more towards helping run the café.

“To be honest I’m just happy to help out where I am needed. It was one of the best things I have ever agreed to. I love my time at Emmaus and really feel part of the whole thing.”

Emmaus provides a home and meaningful work for 16 people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion.

The Emporium, which specialises in furniture and household items, is one of three shops run by the charity. Volunteers assist in a variety of roles including serving customers, sorting donations and helping out in the café.

Matt Taylor, from Emmaus, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to all our volunteers.

“During Volunteers’ Week, we also want to encourage anyone considering volunteering to get in touch and find out more.

“Volunteering is a good way to meet new people. All that’s required is a smile and willingness to roll up your sleeves to help us out.”

For more information about volunteering, email info@ emmauslandr.org or call Hinckley 637586. To find out more about Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland, visit www. e mmaus. o r g . uk/ l e i c e s t e rshire_rutland