The Missionary Mart in Wallington has arguably been ignored and overlooked in previous years. Situated on Stafford Road, it seems almost camouflaged among houses but it in fact is full of donated goods. It's even considered by some locals a hidden gem within Wallington as it occasionally sells some rare and interesting vintage items.
It has recently been taken over by the charity Emmaus with proceeds going towards this their work and projects. Emmaus is a UK-based charity which is devoted to working towards an end to homelessness. Donating and buying from charity shops and places like The Missionary Mart are just one of many ways to help Emmaus continue its work to combat homelessness.
The Christmas period is something we tend to know as a time to be celebrating with friends and family but for some this sadly isn't the case. Even though homelessness definitely isn't a seasonal issue, it affects people a lot more prominently at this time of year. Not only is the weather colder and more harsh on those with no place to go, it's disheartening when some have no home to return to where they'd spend time with their loved ones. The homeless are also no strangers to our local areas, meaning the issue is right on our doorstep and one we should try our best to tackle them.
Contributing to charities like Emmaus can do just this, making this harsh season easier on those without a place to go. Most charities that help the homeless can offer them a bed for a night and a hot meal but Emmaus aim to go further. They try to help each individual find the root cause of their situation in order to tackle the problem with more positive effects that contribute to a long-term solution.
Emmaus state that for every £1 donated, £11 is eventually generated for the community through social, environmental and economic returns. One of the ways this comes about is because they provide people with healthcare which keeps more people healthy and out of hospitals. They also help homeless people get and stay in work which prevents them from resorting to crime, saving the Ministry of Justice and the police services more money every year.
In their centres run by many volunteers and supported by donations, Emmaus also spreads festive cheer for all their residents, whether they have family or not. They offer everyone a hot Christmas lunch and a chance to be surrounded by people who care for them. Contributing to the Missionary Mart to support Emmaus can give the less fortunate in our local areas this chance at Christmas. They'll have the opportunity to celebrate the season with food, warmth and care just like everyone else.
by Zoe Nicholls, Wallington High School for Girls
