A Preston-based charity which helps the city’s homeless get a roof over their head and find gainful employment is up for an award.

Emmaus Preston is calling on the city to vote for them in the national 2019 Reuse Network awards.

The charity has been expanding to open megastores across the North West after the success of its shops in Preston, operating in the former B&Q store and also on Fishergate in the former HMV.

Reuse Organisation of the Year sees Emmaus has been shortlisted for jointly for Emmaus Preston and Emmaus Burnley.

Director of Emmaus Preston Stephen Buchanan said: “Over the past year, the teams at both Emmaus Preston and Emmaus Burnley have been working together to launch the first charity department store in the country. Building on the success of our Megastore in Preston, we opened the large Emmaus Department Store in Rochdale, a prime retail space covering more than 50,000 square feet across three floors.

“The store is now helping to reduce household waste and generating an income that directly pays for the food, training and support for formerly homeless people who live in Emmaus communities.

“The work experience our beneficiaries gain by running a department store has increased their self-esteem, confidence and skills, helping them on their journeys towards full time employment and securing their own homes.”

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The winner of the award will be announced at the Reuse Network Annual Conference in May.

To vote for Emmaus Preston you can visit the Reuse voting site.

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