Homelessness charity Emmaus South Wales is seeking sponsorship from local businesses as well as donations of DIY materials as they plan to install an upcycling workshop at their Bridgend community which supports people transitioning out of homelessness.
The organisation supports companions (the term used to describe formerly homeless people living in their community and working in their social enterprises). With three Emmaus shops in Bridgend and Porthcawl, the charity sells donated furniture, household items, and clothing.
Now, they aim to expand their social enterprise model by installing an upcycling workshop in the community garden. Here, companions can sustainably refurbish and repair old furniture, preventing it from ending up in landfill, whilst simultaneously learning new skills.
To realise this vision, the charity is reaching out for sponsorship from local businesses, as well as asking for donations of paint, wallpaper, and DIY supplies.
Additionally, they're seeking volunteers proficient in upcycling skills such as carpentry, painting, and upholstery.
Del Jones, CEO of Emmaus South Wales, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating:
“We've observed a growing trend of customers purchasing furniture for upcycling, a practice our charity can undertake itself. This workshop will not only provide companions with valuable skills in carpentry, repairs, and painting but will also generate additional revenue to support our charity during challenging times.”
Emmaus South Wales offer a home for as long as it is needed and meaningful work experience to people who have experienced homelessness or social exclusion. Explaining the main motivation behind the upcycling workshop,
Del added:
“It will also give companions the opportunity to be involved in building something positive, particularly those that aren’t comfortable working in retail, enabling them to leave a legacy, when they do move on’’
If you are interested in supporting Emmaus South Wales’s upcycling workshop project, email info@emmaussouthwales.org.uk
