Buying items
What can I buy at Emmaus?
Emmaus shops sell a wide range of good quality items at great prices:second-hand furniture, household goods and much more. From sofas to sewing machines, books to bicycles, you never know what you might find!
Some items will have been refurbished in the Emmaus workshops; some shops also sell new items made in the workshops, such as garden furniture from reclaimed wood, bird boxes, even stained glass! Contact your nearest shop to find out more.
Why shop at Emmaus?
It's not just the prospect of a bargain that should tempt you; when you buy things at Emmaus, you are helping people who have been homeless and unemployed to get back on their feet. By selling items that they have collected from the public, the formerly homeless men and women who live in Emmaus Communities support themselves financially and any surplus is used to help others in need. Companions also learn new skills and regain their self-respect through working to support themselves and the Community.
When you buy second-hand at Emmaus, you're also saving the environment by reducing the amount of waste going to landfill sites and saving the energy and materials that would be used to make something new.
Can I have items delivered?
Most Emmaus shops will deliver items to your home, as long as you live within a certain area. There is usually a small charge for this service.
When are Emmaus shops open?
Most Emmaus shops are open five or six days a week, Monday-Saturday or Tuesday-Saturday. It varies from shop to shop, though, so it's best to check with your nearest shop to find out.
Are there discounts for people on low incomes?
Emmaus Communities need to support themselves financially through their business, so goods for sale are usually priced at a level that will enable the Community to do this. However, Emmaus is also committed to helping people on low incomes, so most Emmaus shops will give a discount to people who could not otherwise afford to pay for items. You may require some documentation eg proof of receiving Benefits, to qualify for this. Contact your nearest shop to find out more.
