Emmaus gives people who have experienced homelessness a fresh start in life, offering support, meaningful work, and a place to stay for as long as they need it. The six-hectare site located near the small village of Carlton in North Bedfordshire is a popular hub among the local community, with three charity shops and a bistro.

We were introduced to the homelessness charity by construction industry's charity, CRASH, who work with homelessness charities and hospices to navigate their construction projects. Commercial director for VolkerFitzpatrick's Building division and Trustee of CRASH charity, John O'Grady, was pleased that the brand-new furniture could go to a good home and said: "Emmaus Village Carlton does amazing work to try to help people get their lives back on track. We are always looking at ways to support our local communities. That is why we are a proud Patron of CRASH charity. We are delighted that we can improve a large number of people's lives with this donation."

The furniture is already being put to good use in the bedroom accommodation and Chief Officer for Emmaus Village Carlton, Angela Foll, said: "It always means a lot when businesses offer support for our charity, and we're extremely grateful to VolkerFitzpatrick for this generous donation. 

Our on-site accommodation provides a home for up to 42 people who've experienced homelessness; I know that the new furniture will make a big difference, helping to ensure it continues to be a really welcoming environment."

In partnership with CRASH charity, we will continue to support Emmaus Village Carlton with the renovation of their Chapel building, transforming the space into a modern workshop, where residents can restore furniture and host their popular upcycling workshops. The construction project is due to commence in summer this year.