Emmaus charities come together for Walk of Kindness
By Jill Dando News
Emmaus charities across the UK have come together to support the 450-mile Walk of Kindness, organised by Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney.
An inspiring team of staff and people the charity supports, known as ‘companions’, are making the epic journey from St David’s in Wales to Ditchingham in Norfolk to take action on homelessness.
They are being cheered on by other Emmaus charities, known as ‘communities’, along the route. They are providing moral support, accommodation and entertainment along the way. The Walk of Kindness team has walked 300 miles.
Cecile Roberts, CEO at Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney, said: “We are so proud of how Emmaus communities from across our Walk of Kindness route have pulled together to support the team.
“So far, it’s been a lot tougher than any of us have expected. Walking all day, every day is starting to take its toll on all of us. However, it feels really special to be doing this journey and walking day in and day out to create change for people.
“Every pound that gets donated will help people who are experiencing loneliness, isolation and mental health issues.”
A team from Emmaus South Wales joined the walk for a six-hour trek along the Welsh coast, whilst Emmaus Coventry & Warwickshire and Emmaus Cambridge will provide places for the Walk of Kindness team to rest and recover.
Del Jones, CEO at Emmaus South Wales, said: “By walking together, we are not only bringing together companions from different communities who have had similar experiences, but we are also amplifying our voices to raise awareness of homelessness, housing insecurity, and profound trauma.
“By joining the Walk of Kindness, we hope to share a powerful message of solidarity and support. Together, we can create lasting change and help build a future where everyone has a place to call home.”
The Walk of Kindness team incudes Chloe, Jagger and Peter, who have all received support from Emmaus after experiencing homelessness, addiction and mental health issues. They now want to help others who are experiencing homelessness to have a safe home at Emmaus.
Jagger, a companion at Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney, said: “I’ve been living on the streets, on and off since I was about 18 – I’m 61 now. I’ve taken all my life: from food banks, charities, and night shelters, and I want to give something back – that’s why I’m on the Walk of Kindness.”
The Walk of Kindness comes at a time when rough sleeping figures are continually increasing, an estimated 3,898 people slept rough in 2023, an annual increase of 27%.
Emmaus communities across the UK are experiencing increased demand for their services, with more people than ever finding themselves without a place to call home.
Donate and sponsor each mile of the 450-mile journey, ranging from 1p,10p £1, £10 or £100 per mile.
