£2k booster for homeless charity welcomed

FROM the left: Emmaus Mossley companion Kris Wookey with Co-op representative Tracey Barnshaw and Emmaus retail manager Hazel Hodkinson

A MOSSLEY charity supporting the homeless has received a £2,200 cash boost from the Co-op.

Homelessness charity Emmaus Mossley is one of 19 good causes in Oldham to receive a grant as a result of the Co-op's membership scheme.

The cheque donation of £2,219 will go directly towards supporting 26 formerly homeless people through accommodation and work opportunities.

One of the people supported by Emmaus Kris Wookey said: "I was really surprised by how highly regarded our Emmaus community is by local Co-op members.

"Our charity is unique in that we also support the local community so it's nice that we get support back."

Nationally, 4,000 good causes are sharing in a £9 million funding boost from the Co-op's community fund payout.

Chief membership officer at the Co-op Rufus Olins said: "The Co-op has always been community focussed. By listening to our members we are able to identify what communities care most about and then offer support that really makes a difference, and by working with and supporting local good causes great things are happening."

As well as supporting formerly homeless people, Emmaus runs a social enterprise where it sells donated and upcycled furniture and other goods.

Chairman of the charity Frances Hirst said: "

The amount raised has exceeded our expectations and we look forward to using it to directly benefit the people we support."

Support Emmaus at www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley or call 01457 838608.