Posted on 25th Apr
A Newark charity that works with the homeless has received two cheques from the town’s mayor, Coun Laurence Goff, reports Rachel Jones.
Newark Emmaus Trust was one of two charities that the mayor chose to fundraise for during his year in office.
He presented a first cheque of £1,295 to the cause and also helped to hand over a cheque for £1,875, which was raised at a St Patrick’s Day ceilidh at Holy Trinity Community Partnership Centre in the town.
The second cheque was presented by Laurence alongside Liz Spark and Father Michael O’Donoghue, who organised the ceilidh.
The proceeds from the ceilidh were shared evenly between the trust and the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.
Nikki Burley, chief executive officer of Newark Emmaus Trust, said: ‘The trust has been very fortunate to have a champion like Mayor Goff, who has worked tirelessly on our behalf throughout this year, raising £1295.25 with his events and collections, plus engaging local businesses such as Taylor’s Motors Ltd.
“Most importantly, he has shone a spotlight on the work done by the trust, for which we are indebted to him and thank him for his enthusiasm and unfailing support.”
The trust helps young homeless people, aged 16-25, in the Newark area. It provides accommodation in Nottinghamshire, as well as specialised housing for young homeless people and their babies.
It has a purpose-built training centre and runs workshops, tenancy, and parenting support as well as AQA-certified courses.
Liz added: “I became aware of the trust when I volunteered to help one evening a week at The Well homeless drop-in centre, run by Sarah Brumhead at Christ Church Hall on Boundary Road.
“The centre provides a free hot meal, advice, and support through the winter months. I met some wonderful volunteers and we enjoyed working together to make the centre warm, welcoming, and friendly.”
“I learnt that the Emmaus Trust offers not only accommodation for young people under 25 years, but continued support as they make a new life for themselves”
Speaking about the ceilidh, Liz added: “It was a night to remember. It is so long since we have been able to enjoy a social event.
“We hope that this is the beginning of more family celebrations to bring people together to have fun.”
If you would like to fundraise and support Newark Emmaus Trust or require support, you can contact them at 01636 650700. Alternatively you contact Nikki Burley at [email protected]
