Greenwich homeless charity appeals for trustees as borough’s house crisis worsens

A homelessness charity in Greenwich is appealing for new trustees to help the charity support homeless people as the borough’s housing crisis continues to spiral.

To fund its work, Emmaus Greenwich collects and sells donated items in three shops in Plumstead, Lewisham and Poplar and its online shop. 

The Plumstead-based charity currently has eight trustees and is appealing for people with experience in retail, property management and fundraising.

Gaenor Stevenson, who has been Chair of Trustees at Emmaus Greenwich since 2013, said: “I’m proud of how we have grown from a single property with one residential site and retail outlet to the current three shops and four houses for accommodation. 

“Being a trustee is a great way to be involved in the local community and I’ve met some truly interesting and dedicated people along the way.”

 Trustees at Emmaus Greenwich work together to ensure the charity has a clear strategy and goals in line with its vision. Trustees meet five times a year and can get involved with projects and events at the charity.

Emmaus provides accommodation, training, work opportunities and support to people who have experienced homelessness.

More than two thirds of people supported by Emmaus Greenwich move on into jobs, their own housing or return to families, according to the charity.

Emmaeus Greenwich also runs an outreach service in Woolwich and Westminster called Street Souls which provides direct support to people who are street homeless or struggling with poverty.

To apply to be a trustee for Emmaus Greenwich, email info@emmausgreenwich.org

Pictured top: From left, Charlotte Talbott, chief executive of Emmaus UK, Sir Terry Waite, Emmaus UK President and Gaenor Stevenson, Emmaus Greenwich chair of trustees during Sir Terry’s Knighthood celebration at Emmaus Greenwich in November 2023 (Picture: Emmaaus Greenwich)