Emmaus North Staffs shortlisted in annual Business Awards
Emmaus North Staffs has been shortlisted in an annual awards, hosted by Staffordshire University, for their ongoing commitment to supporting local communities.
The charity – which works to end furniture poverty – is a finalist in the Business in the Community category of the Staffordshire Business Awards 2024 – which aim to celebrate organisations of all sectors and sizes.
As well as supporting around 850 households by supplying furniture items and appliances to those who cannot afford their own – Emmaus North Staffs have also been helping to provide brand new bed kits for children via their ‘Beds for Kids’ campaign for the last two years.
The campaign has brought about partnerships with others, such as children’s bed charity Zarach, which has seen a local support hub set up at Emmaus North Staffs Furniture and Home Charity Emporium in Etruria.
John Webbe, Executive Lead at Emmaus North Staffs, said: “It’s really devastating to know how many children in and around Stoke-on-Trent are without a bed of their own and that is why we launched our beds for kids campaign in 2022.
“We have seen more and more children living on the grips of poverty crisis and via our campaign we are able to provide a bed, mattress and bedding which can ultimately change the life of a child. When a child has not got a bed of their own it can have such a serious impact on their schooling and all-round physical and mental health. The more we can do to support our local children and communities the better.”
In 2023 the charity, which also has a large store in the Potteries Centre, was recognised for its commitment to the environment with a Sustainability Award at the Potteries Centre’s Annual Awards.
Nine members of staff work for Emmaus North Staffs, along with 15 regular volunteers.
Workshops also take place at the Etruria emporium – which are run by volunteers to help others to develop new skills for employment opportunities.
“As well as providing support to local families we are very committed to helping the environment and educating other businesses on how they can help too,” says John.
“Each year we help to save hundreds of tonnes of waste going to landfill by recycling household items and we are very keen to support others to do the same.
“Our workshops also provide opportunities for others to achieve more and build confidence in the workplace.”
Winners of the Staffordshire University Business Awards will be announced at a special celebration ceremony on Thursday 5 September at the university’s Catalyst building.
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