Homelessness charity Emmaus joins Hull 4 Ukraine appeal to help refugees

SUPPORT: Donations made to the Hull 4 Ukraine appeal

By Simon Bristow

Homelessness charity Emmaus Hull and East Riding has teamed up with action group Hull 4 Ukraine to help refugees who have settled in the city.

The organisations have set up an in-store voucher scheme for all those who have arrived in Hull after fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. Displaced people are able to redeem their vouchers for free essential items including shoes, clothes, toys, and homeware, in all three of Emmaus Hull and East Riding’s shops.

So far, the initiative has provided more than 200 people with much-needed belongings.

Emmaus Hull and East Riding and Hull 4 Ukraine are now appealing for donations to ensure everyone can get the items they need. They are asking for donations of clothing, shoes, accessories, and bedding.

Kelly Finnis, director of Emmaus Hull and East Riding, said: “We are so proud to be supporting Hull 4 Ukraine; solidarity is close to our heart and the foundation on which Emmaus has grown both nationally and internationally.

COMMUNITY RESOURCE: The Emmaus store in Whitefriargate

“Hull 4 Ukraine has made a substantial difference to those affected by the war in Ukraine and our ability to support a small part of their work feels absolutely the right thing to do. We welcome those resettled in our city into our stores, and we hope through this joint initiative we are able to demonstrate the kindness of our local community during these uncertain times.”

The charity is also helping those affected by the conflict gain new skills and get to know the community in Hull through volunteering opportunities in their shops.

Emmaus provides a home, support, and meaningful work for up people with experience of homelessness. The charity generates income from the sale of second-hand goods at three shops on Whitefriargate, Newland Avenue and Lockwood Street.

Alan Hardy, chair of Hull 4 Ukraine, said: “We’re delighted to be partnered with Emmaus Hull and East Riding. Their support has enabled guests from Ukraine to shop for all the belongings they had to leave behind in such a friendly environment. We love seeing all the work that Emmaus Hull and East Riding do in the local community, especially their outreach support service. It’s great to see such a sense of community in Hull.”

Items can be donated at The Emmaus Emporium at 51 Whitefriargate, Hull, HU1 2HP, from 10am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday. You can find out more and book a collection here.