Help to make South Shields homeless centre a home

A rallying call has gone out across South Tyneside to help make a house for the homeless extra comfy.
Work continues on Emmaus House, Stanhope Road.Work continues on Emmaus House, Stanhope Road.
Work continues on Emmaus House, Stanhope Road.

Since the start of the year, charity Emmaus North East – which supports homeless people – has been revamping the former children’s home in Stanhope Road, South Shields.

The building, which was derelict for many years, had fallen into a state of disrepair.

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But soon it will able to house 15 residents, who are known as companions.

Already scaffolding and a number of green shutters have been removed from the site, a new roof has been installed and the building is water tight.

However, charity bosses are hoping kind-hearted readers will help donate the finishing touches.

Sue Wilson, charity chairwoman, said: “We have had a tremendous amount of support from the people of South Tyneside but are still looking for wash basins - we need 23 all together - showers and tiles.

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“Any old boxes of tiles people have stored in their garage would be useful for splashbacks behind the basin.

“We’re also in need of bedding and towels and kitchen equipment - anything which makes a house a home.”

Workers from computer company Sage have been lending a helping hand in recent weeks by decorating the walls with paint donated by Akzo Nobel.

Visitors will be able to attend two open days, which will be held on September 3 and 9, from 10am to noon each day.

Anyone who is able to donate, or would like to attend the open days should email [email protected].