Homeless charity Emmaus secures funding to expand Sheffield base

Emmaus, based at Sipelia Works in Cadman Street, close to the Canal Basin, provides self-contained accommodation, training and a workplace for previously homeless men.

The charity has 18 apartments in the complex, which is part of the Sheaf Works - built by William Greaves & Sons in 1825, and the first integrated steelworks in Sheffield.

It has wanted to expand for some time, but structural problems with one wing of the site have prevented the building being fully utilised.

But Emmaus has now secured the funding it needs to make the building safe and ready for redevelopment in the next few weeks.

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Ex-homeless working their way to a better life in Emmaus Sheffield’s communityDeputy manager Charley Fedorenko said: “This is the best news we could have had as it means we will finally be able to make even better use of the complete site.

“This exciting regeneration project will see us not only securing the space to create greater facilities for the companions - including a new gym, quiet room, communal space and ultimately more rooms - but it will also give us chance to clear the existing yard area, creating valuable extra car parking space for our visitors.

“Even more importantly, it will allow us to create a new reception area and counter space for our hugely popular eBay shop which, along with our second hand store, is one of our most important income streams.

“This investment means that we will finally be able to use the whole site to its full capacity, securing the future of a Grade II-listed building and, even more importantly for us, ensuring that we have the room to expand and meet the needs of men and women who are determined to make a new start in life.”

Emmaus Sheffield is a working community, comprising a charity shop and apartments. It is open to homeless people and aims to restore in them a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Those who get a space at Emmaus sign off primary benefits. The charity claims their housing benefits, and they are given a small allowance every week. In return for accommodation, they work five days a week.

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