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Emmaus Preston seeks volunteer shop helpers and van drivers

Posted on - 11th March, 2023 - 12:00pm | Author - | Posted in - Charities, Preston City Centre, Preston News
Emmaus charity beneficiaries Mandy and Curtis at Emmaus Fashion, Vintage and Retro
Emmaus charity beneficiaries Mandy and Curtis at Emmaus Fashion, Vintage and Retro in Fishergate

Homelessness charity Emmaus Preston is on the hunt for local volunteers to support its community and charity shops in the city. 

The charity has a number of roles available in social media, Luton van driving and van crew, maintenance and its charity shops on Fishergate and on Brookfield Street in Preston.

Emmaus is looking for individuals with suitable skills and experience, as well as a commitment to volunteer at least one day per week. Training will be provided. 

Zuleika from Preston is a volunteer fashion champion, helping at Emmaus Preston Fashion, Vintage and Retro charity shop, sorting donations and creating eye-catching displays.

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Emmaus Preston volunteer Zuleikha
Emmaus Preston volunteer Zuleikha

The final year student spotted the opportunity at a volunteers’ fair at the University of Central Lancashire UCLan. 

Zuleika said: “Shopping at Emmaus isn’t like going into a normal clothing shop. When people come in and buy something from someone here, you are also benefitting the person you’re meeting who are working in store.  

“It’s not something generic you’ll buy. It’s not something that’s just in season or even a current trend, you’ll just find something you like. Shopping at an Emmaus charity shop feels more personal. 

“When you’re volunteering with Emmaus, you’re actually working alongside people supported here, and seeing how your role is changing people’s lives.

“That is something I wanted to do and get involved with. I’m getting to know the people I’m helping.”  

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Stephen Buchanan, Emmaus Preston Director, with Companions at the megastore

Emmaus Preston supports formerly homeless people by providing a stable home and meaningful work within its charity shops for as long as is needed.

One of its three second hand and new charity shops in the city is Emmaus Megastore, on the site of a former B&Q on Brookfield Street, which is one of the largest charity shops in the country.

These outlets take in and sell donated furniture, clothing and household goods, and sell brand new beds, white goods, such as washing machines and bedroom furniture. It is the profits from these stores that support the charity. 

Volunteer Coordinator at Emmaus Preston, Lisa Lulat, said: “Volunteering helps people who are in need. You are giving something back and it also has massive benefits to yourself.

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“It can improve your mental mood, keep you busy, help you gain new skills (which is great for your CV), help with building communication skills, interact with others, the list goes on.

“If you even have a few hours a week to spare, I would recommend volunteering for Emmaus Preston.” 

Emmaus Preston offers all volunteers an opportunity to develop their skills and gain experience for a worthwhile cause.

Training is offered where possible and all volunteers receive dinner and travel expenses on the days that they volunteer.  

To find out more about the roles on offer at Emmaus Preston, visit the ‘Support Us’ section on the emmaus preston website.

If you or your company want to volunteer for a day or your staff can provide a longer commitment, email the charity’s Volunteer Coordinator lisa@emmauspreston.org.uk 

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