Communal rooms at Emmaus Leeds have received a modern makeover thanks to the hard work of our community members and support from a Leeds artist.
Emmaus Leeds supports 26 companions (formerly homeless people) by providing them with a stable home and meaningful work in a social enterprise. The communal kitchen, dining room, lounge and study are used by companions on a daily basis, providing homely spaces where they can socialise and relax.
Andy, companion at Emmaus Leeds, said: “It’s made a great transformation to our community and all our companions can now enjoy these comfortable areas to relax and eat together.”
Leeds artist, David Shearing, worked with companions of Emmaus Leeds to improve the look and feel of the communal rooms. The residents and staff at the charity then worked together to source products and carry out the work.
“I wanted to help shape and provide a vision for the spaces.”
David Shearing, Artist and Designer, said: “Working with Emmaus over the year has been great. Seeing first-hand the care, dedication and skills of the team to deliver such a large project has been wonderful. The living areas are an important part of everyday life for companions and I wanted to help shape and provide a vision for the spaces. The hard work was done by the team but I am really pleased I could offer my design skills in this way.”
The Emmaus Leeds community building and main shop is located on St Mary’s Street, close to West Yorkshire Playhouse. Homeless people who join the community are given a home for as long as they need it, work in the social enterprise, personal support, an opportunity to gain skills and help towards living independently.
Donald Forrester, Chief Executive Officer at Emmaus Leeds, said: “The renovated communal rooms at Emmaus Leeds are now much more warm and welcoming for our companions. I would like to thank and congratulate all those from our community who have helped to carry out the work and give appreciation to David Shearing for his input on the designs.”
To find out more and support Emmaus Leeds visit www.emmaus.org.uk/leeds. If you would like to get involved or donate an item call 0113 248 4288 or visit Emmaus Leeds at St Mary’s Street, Leeds, LS9 7DP.