Type: Annual Grant Award
Area: Winchester, Hampshire

Emmaus Communities enable people to move on from homelessness, providing work and a home in a supportive family environment. There are currently 17 Communities open in the UK and more in development. In addition, the Emmaus UK Federation is part of an international Movement with more than 300 projects in over 40 countries worldwide.

Emmaus Hampshire have nearly completed work on their Live/Work Community outside Winchester. The Community will provide 23 formerly homeless 'Companions' with food, accommodation and a worthwhile occupation. In return Companions must agree to work a 40 hour week in a drink and drugs-free environment and sign off primary state benefits.

The business element of the Community will be the re-sale of donated furniture and a Cafe open to the public. The Community is set in a bio-diverse landscape and the buildings are eco friendly with solar panels and a green sedum roof.

LandAid's grant of £8,000 will enable Emmaus Hampshire to buy the additional equipment they need for the workshop and retail areas of their new community building.