Donate furniture

Emmaus collects furniture and other household goods free of charge in the areas where we have shops, or you can take items to a shop yourself.

What goods does Emmaus take?

The items that each Emmaus shop can accept varies, depending on local circumstances such as space, the skills available and trading standards regulations. Some guidelines are included below but you should contact your nearest Emmaus shop to confirm exactly what they can and can't take.

Most Emmaus shops can accept:
* Good quality furniture in saleable condition
* Books, records, CDs
* Bric a brac, china and glassware
* Upholstered furniture with Fire Safety Label (Furniture and Furnishing Regs 1988)

Some Emmaus shops accept:
* Electrical items (items are tested before re-sale)
* Slightly damaged or worn furniture
* Computer equipment
* White goods (fridges, freezers etc) in working order
* Clean clothes and household linen
* Bicycles
* Scrap metal

Most Emmaus shops cannot accept:
* Gas bottles or appliances
* Very heavy items eg pianos
* Baby items eg prams, high chairs
* Photocopiers
* Paraffin, petrol, paint or other inflammables

What does Emmaus do with donated goods?

Emmaus Communities rely on donated goods to make their living. The formerly homeless men and women who live in the Community work full time, collecting goods and re-selling them in the shop. Some items are refurbished or tested before re-sale. The income from this business supports the Community; the aim is that each Community becomes finanically self-sufficient. Companions often say that working helps them regain their self respect because they are learning new skills, working to support themselves and helping others.

To see more about how your furniture donation can help change lives, see our video page or read the stories of the formerly homeless people who live in Emmaus.

Find an Emmaus shop

Find your nearest shop and give them a call to find out more or book a free collection!