An estate agency pledging a share of housing sales to a homelessness charity has donated £2,000 to help people rebuild lives at Emmaus Preston. 

Roberts and Co chose Emmaus Preston as its charity of the year for its work with people who have experienced homelessness in the city. 

Emmaus Preston provides accommodation, support, training and work experience for up to 26 people to help people build back the confidence and self-esteem to move forward in life. 

Part of Emmaus’ funding comes from its social enterprises, which involves the sale of donated household goods, new bedroom furniture and new kitchen appliances at three charity shops in Preston, with the remainder coming from fundraising and other sources. 

The director of Roberts and Co, Emma Roberts, said: “Because we’re an estate agency it was the natural choice to support people in the community who don’t have the funds to purchase or rent a house at the moment. 

“We really liked the fact that Emmaus is giving people not just a roof over their heads but a purpose as well. This is important for individuals’ wellbeing. People are clothed, fed and warmed and they’ve also got a purpose; something to get up for in the morning. There’s a sense of self-worth and pride in their work. Emmaus helps people get back on their feet, to enter the world of work and move forward with their lives.” 

During the year-long partnership, Roberts and Co held information sessions at the charity home to help prepare people to move into homes and careers with the support of Emmaus Preston. 

Throughout the winter, the estate agency also collected new clothing at branches in Lostock Hall and Penwortham to aid the charity’s outreach work with people who are street homeless. 

Head of support at Emmaus Preston, Karen Wallis, commented: “We’re incredibly grateful for Roberts and Co Estate Agent’s charity partnership. Their clothing collections have not only supported our work with people who are building back from homeless, but also with people who are rough sleeping. 

“Everyone attending the information sessions provided by the local experts really benefitted from learning more about renting and the paperwork that comes with it. 

“We’re excited to be able to use this funding to boost our programme of education and training, and help people develop skills for life.  

“To have the support of businesses and organisations, means so much to people supported here because it shows people are cared for and included as part of society.”