‘It has humbled me’: Homeless charity volunteer describes benefits of offering help

Kelsey McCabe

A homelessness charity is seeking volunteers to fill a number of roles across its locations. 

Emmaus Greenwich, a branch of Emmaus UK, runs three charity shops in Lewisham, Poplar and Plumstead, as well as a house-clearing service that donates its proceeds to those facing homelessness.

The charity is seeking volunteers interested in retail, van driving, and outreach services. Volunteers are also needed for kitchen work at Street Souls, a service held twice a week to support those struggling financially by providing a free meal, internet connection, and information about Emmaus Greenwich’s other services.

Kait Fernandes, 48, a volunteer from Belvedere, Bexley, who helps prepare meals for Street Souls, said: “I enjoy meeting new people from different parts of society and different backgrounds. There’s so much banter when we’re cooking, there’s companionship.

“Cooking and sharing a meal with someone who just needs a friendly, non-judgemental ear every so often is my biggest take from this.

“You never know where life takes you, circumstances change every second. Creating a space for someone to share not just a meal but to connect over it has humbled me.”

In addition to its community outreach programmes, Emmaus Greenwich provides housing and work opportunities for formerly homeless people, as well as an open, safe environment to discuss their challenges.

Sofia Barbosa, chief executive officer at Emmaus Greenwich, said: “Our local volunteers are a much-valued part of the Emmaus Greenwich team. We are keen to expand the range of roles we offer, and hopefully there are opportunities that will appeal to all ages, skills and interests.”

Pictured top: Volunteer Kait Fernandes cooks with one of the people supported by the charity (Picture: Emmaus Greenwich)