Players and staff from Oldham Athletic Football Club (OAFC) have visited local charity Emmaus Mossley to learn more about their support for homeless people in the community.
On Tuesday, February 21, players Charles Dunne, Chris Kettings, Michael Ngoo and Chris Taylor, together with staff members from Oldham Athletic Community Trust visited Longlands Mill, home to Emmaus Mossley.
The players and staff had a tour of the community and social enterprise, met with companions – formerly homeless people who live and work at Emmaus – and made a donation of items to support the work of the charity.
Paul Barnes, one of the companions at Emmaus Mossley, shared his experience of living on the streets and explained how he has benefitted from being part of the Emmaus community.
Paul said: “It was good to share my personal story of homelessness and explain more about the varied work that goes on at Emmaus Mossley. We also explained to the group how we help others less fortunate than ourselves through acts of solidarity.”
Emmaus Mossley supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. The charity runs a social enterprise in Mossley, selling donated and upcycled furniture, household goods, clothes, bric-a-brac and vintage wares.
Wendy Noble, OACT Operations Manager added: “It was an amazing experience to visit Emmaus and witness first-hand the unbelievable work that they do. Everyone connected with this wonderful charity are an inspiration and we were all blown away by their commitment and drive for helping others.”
Goalkeeper Kettings commented: “It was a humbling experience it really put things into perspective.”
The visit to Emmaus Mossley was part of Oldham Athletics’ outreach work in the community. Using the power of football, Oldham Athletic Community Trust (OACT) works in partnership with its local community to provide positive opportunities through sport to inspire the local community.
Harry Barlow, Community Leader at Emmaus Mossley, said: “It was great to welcome guests from the club I have supported from a young age to the community and charity I am now a part of. We are looking forward to future partnerships with Oldham Athletic and feel proud that they are able to support our work.”
To find out more or support Emmaus Mossley head to www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01457 838608 or visit the store at Longlands Mill, Queen Street, Mossley OL5 9AH.