We’re pleased to announce we are now in partnership with Emmaus Hull & East Riding – The growing charity that is focussed on supporting people affected by homelessness.
At Opera, we believe everyone should have access to a bed, that’s why we donate our old beds and mattresses to those in need within our community.
The work that Emmaus do helps make a real difference to those experiencing homelessness and we’re proud to support our local community.
About Emmaus
Emmaus Hull & East Riding is an independent charity which is part of the national Emmaus federation and international Emmaus movement. Emmaus started in France soon after the second World War when homelessness became a huge issue. The Emmaus community was founded by Father Henri-Antoine Grouès, often known as Abbé Pierre back in 1949 in Paris.
Emmaus Hull & East Riding
Formed in 2008, The Emmaus Hull & East Riding Charity supports many individuals for as long as they need. For many people Emmaus help, helping them contribute to society and being a part of a supportive community rebuilds confidence and self-esteem.
Emmaus provide more than beds for the night; they offer tailored support packages and meaningful work within the community and homes for people in need for as long as they require.
Emmaus Hull & East Riding Services
The charity provides a range of services to supporting people who experience homelessness:
The Orchard
Emmaus has their own purpose-built community building, The Orchard which is home to up to 30 formerly homeless people. The Orchard is designed to help those work their way out of homelessness, as well as giving them a home and the opportunity to take part in meaningful work, training and receive support.
Social enterprise
The charity’s income is also generated by their social enterprise which is based on the collection, processing, and sale of second-hand goods. These items range from furniture, household goods, clothes, textiles, books, and music.
Every purchase from Emmaus Hull & East Riding’s charity shops directly supports those on their journey out of homelessness.
Opera’s donations to Emmaus Hull & East Riding
Every week, Emmaus Hull & East Riding will collect old beds and mattresses that are in good condition to be part of their social enterprise.
The beds are displayed at the Emmaus superstore which is based at 32 Lockwood Street in Hull. The beds are available to purchase, and any funds generated in store go directly to the community (The Orchard) and supports people who have experienced homelessness.
The beds can also go to those who have vouchers from Hull City Council, who are experiencing hardship, some of these customers can be vulnerable people within the community and the vouchers can help those in need.
Emmaus also have a move on scheme for their residents (companions) who are moving on from Emmaus into independent living, our partnership with he Charity supports those in setting up in their forever home.
Outreach Service
Emmaus Hull & East Riding also provide an outreach service which offers direct support to those who are street homeless. Since 2016, the Charity service team meets individuals offering their advice and support, whilst working with a range of partners to achieve many successful outcomes.
Meanwhile, central to the Emmaus Hull & East Riding homeless outreach service is a dedicated team of people who have lived experience of homelessness. This team is trained by the Charity to become active outreach workers to support the most vulnerable people on the streets and in rural places across East Riding.
The dedicated outreach team do a brilliant job, having lived through homelessness themselves which enables them to drive their passion and determination to helping those who need it most.
Supporting Emmaus
There are many ways to support Emmaus charity in helping people experiencing homelessness. Donating goods and shoring at their charity stores or helping with fundraising helps the team to carry out their charitable efforts and outreach work.
For more information on Emmaus or ways to get involved visit their website
