Germany

EMMAUS SONSBECK

Organisation set up in 1985 and member of Emmaus International since 1987.

Eight companions live and work at the Emmaus Sonsbeck community. They carry out the traditional activities of Emmaus communities of collecting, sorting, repairing and selling goods at low prices.

The group runs a second-hand shop, which is open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. There are two separate areas in the shop – clothing and decorative items are sold in one area, while furniture, antiques, books and CDs, etc. are sold in the other. Emmaus Sonsbeck is highly attached to its independence, so it operates without state subsidies.

Using income from its activities, the group takes part, along with other Emmaus organisations in Germany, in sending goods to Emmaus organisation, Iasi in Romania. Emmaus Sonsbeck collaborates with organisation, Women Helping Women, which supports female victims of domestic violence and rape. It also supports a fish farming project in Kenya.

Organisation created in 1997 and member of Emmaus International since 2010.

Located in London, Emmaus South Lambeth comprises two communities where 54 companions live and work, carrying out the traditional activities of Emmaus communities: collecting, sorting, repairing and selling goods at low prices. The group has six second-hand shops, the most recent of which, the Brixton Shop, opened in 2013 in order to meet increasing demand. In April 2013, Emmaus Lambeth set up a partnership with Lambeth Local Authority. The aim being for people with limited financial means to benefit from receiving material donations from the community, rather than receiving welfare from the local authorities. Also in partnership with the town hall, Emmaus South Lambeth does painting work in the town. The people who carry out these tasks have often been marginalised. Through their work, they gain in self-esteem and increase their chances of reintegrating society and the workforce. Lastly, every day the group also helps prepare 25 meals at a day centre.