Local homelessness charity Emmaus North East is proud to be supporting Independent Retail Month throughout the month of July. Running annually, the campaign aims to highlight the important role smaller, local, independent retailers play in the communities they serve, the local economy they contribute to, and in the retail sector as a whole.
Opening its community house in March 2017, Emmaus North East supports 13 formerly homeless people by giving them a home, meaningful work in a social enterprise and an opportunity to regain lost self-esteem to help rebuild their lives. The charity sells furniture, clothing, vintage items and haberdashery from its two shops in Low Fell and Hebburn.
Fran Davidson, Retail Manager for Emmaus North East said, “We are proud to be supporting this campaign to raise awareness of the part that the independent shops play in local communities. Not only do we prevent thousands of items a year from going to landfill, but we also provide opportunities for volunteers. This offers a bridge, for many, into employment, as well as building their confidence.”
Recent research shows the value of £1 spent locally had a genuine impact on local communities. For every £1 spent, around 50p – 70p of that money gets recirculated back into the community. For the same £1 spent out of town or online, only 5p gets back to the local community.
Further information on Independent Retail Month can be found here: http://www.independentretailermonth.co.uk/
If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 0191 487 8825 or visit the stores at 639-6343 Durham Road, Low Fell, Gateshead, NE9 5HA or Unit 5, St James Mall, Hebburn, NE31 1LE.