Former hostage Terry Waite gives talk at charity event
AN EVENT at Hinckley Rugby Club raised £3,000 for a homeless charity based in the town.
Terry Waite, president of Emmaus UK, gave a keynote speech at the evening, in aid of Emmaus Leicestershire and Rutland.
The group has a shop on Castle Street and a furniture store on Stockwell Head.
The former hostage negotiator spoke about being kidnapped and imprisoned for more than four years, comparing his experience in solitary confinement to the isolation felt by the homeless.
Steve Atkinson, chair of trustees for Emmaus Leicestershire and Rutland, said: “All the money raised will help to continue Emmaus Leicestershire and Rutland’s vital work - with each £1 received saving £11 for the public purse.
“A lot of people put a great deal of time and effort into making this evening the success it has been.
“There was a real buzz about the place and the feedback from guests has been very positive.”
PA Systems and the Anand and Sethi Family Charity Trust each presented donations of £1,000 on the night.
Emmaus Leicestershire and Rutland provides a home, support and mean- ingful work for 16 formerly homeless individuals, known as companions.
Some stay for a while as they gain skills before moving on to independent living, while others need longer term support.
Former homeless man Shane Blankley from Barwell spoke about his experience as a companion, saying the charity had “saved my life”.
He now has a job, a fiancée and two young children, and is getting married in November this year.
More than 140 people attended, with vocal tal- ents of Lydia Unsudimi and Paul Skyers, from Big Black Guitars, providing entertainment.
Mr Atkinson said: “I hope that those who attended will share what we do with others and continue to support the vital work of Emmaus in years to come.”
Anyone interested in supporting or working with Emmaus should contact Mir Juma, chief executive of Emmaus Leicestershire and Rutland, on Hinckley 637587.
Visit the Emmaus UK website for more information about the charity.