Newark charity Emmaus Trust that supports young homeless celebrates its 30th anniversary

A charity that has supported over 1000 young homeless people celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The Newark Emmaus Trust has grown its services and accommodations since it first incorporated in January 1993.

From accommodating the first six residents on February 14 1994 on two leased properties on Cross Street to an extension of 36 young people, the charity grew.

The greatest success was when one of the first residents obtained full employment and financial independence, enough to move into his own permanent accommodation, said Nicola Burley, ceo of the Trust.

She added: “A huge and noteworthy accomplishment.”

Betty Findlay funded the charity together with Nottinghamshire County Council and Newark Council of Christian Churches - currently known as Churches Together.

“Over the last thirty years the Trust has worked with over 1000 young, local homeless people and their children,” said Nicola.

She added: “At the Trust, we provide vital help, support and accommodation so that they can rebuild their lives and find a way out of homelessness for good. It has been my privilege to work with this amazing team of people who provide one-to-one support, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. I never cease to be amazed by their dedication and by the generosity of our friends and supporters.”

Within 18 months of being open the Trust bought its first property on Currie Road and in 1997 the Trust bought a next one known as ‘Findlay’.

The ‘Findlay’ property opened for seven residents, with 13 bed spaces and in 1999 the property expanded to 17 bed spaces in total.

In 1998 a move-on property was opened and the charity bedspaces increased to 15 young people.

In 2000 the Trust saw a significant change with the opening of a parent and baby house and a training centre, accommodating a total of 18 people.

Nicola added: “I would like to thank everyone who has helped us in any small way over the last thirty years and to those who help us to continue and develop our service: donors, local businesses and those that raise funds for the Trust.

“I am truly thankful and humbled by this wealth of support. I am also very grateful to my team who continue to do a fantastic job, even throughout a pandemic.”

Over two years of being unable to hold fundraising events due to the pandemic, the charity comes back with a full agenda, including the Big Newark Sleep Out this Friday, March 10.

The local independent charity provides accommodation, support and training for homeless young people aged between 16 and 25, including pregnant teenagers, young parents and their babies.

The training centre is a fully-equipped IT centre and gave the residents the chance

to bridge the gap between school and college or work.

All the accommodations provided are fully furnished and ready to occupy.

Despite the current living cost crisis, the charity accommodates 25 single young people and 11 parents and babies.