Emmaus – Frequently Asked Questions
Emmaus – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Companion?
The men and women who live and work in Emmaus Communities are known as Companions. The name ‘compagnon’ was chosen when the first Communities were founded in France; it is derived from Latin and originally meant those who ate bread together. Sharing meals is still an important part of Community life.
How long do people stay in a Community?
There is no limit to how long people stay in a Community – it can be anything from a couple of weeks to several years. Companions can stay for as long as they need. For some, Emmaus will fill a short term need, for example to recover from addiction, to regain their self-esteem or to gain new skills. These people may move on to other accommodation, jobs etc. Others will stay in Emmaus for a longer time – for some it will be a permanent home. Communities benefit from having long term Companions as they provide stability and can help and support newer Companions.
Who comes to Emmaus?
Many Emmaus Companions have been living on the streets and sleeping rough. They come from many different backgrounds and have become homeless for a variety of reasons – relationship breakdown, job loss or bereavement have often played a significant part. Many struggle with alcohol and drug dependency. Those coming to Emmaus must be prepared to work and to sign off Job Seekers Allowance. Those addicted to alcohol or drugs must want to overcome this, as no alcohol or drugs are allowed in Communities. Many Companions find the security and support they need to face up to these problems within a Community environment.
What is Community life like?
Life at each Community varies, depending on size, location etc. However, they all work broadly in the same way. Emmaus Communities live as a family, with members supporting each other and contributing to the well-being of all. Each Companion has their own room, but meals are eaten together. Housework is shared and social events are organised, though these are not compulsory.
Communities aim to be a home, not an institution, so there are few rules. However, all Companions are required to consider the needs of others. Those breaking rules are excluded from Emmaus Communities for a period of time. All Companions work full time on the Community business to the best of their ability, refurbishing and re-selling donated furniture and household goods.
How does someone join an Emmaus Community?
People find out about Emmaus in a variety of ways. Some Companions are “referred” by another organisation, such as a night shelter or Social Services. Others hear about us through word of mouth, for example from family or friends, or find us online.
Each Community deals with admission of new Companions independently. If somebody wishes to join they need to contact a particular Community to find out about joining that Community and whether there is a space there.
Where does Emmaus get its money from?
Emmaus Communities aim to become financially self-sufficient through their business. It takes 5 years on average for a Community to become self-sufficient, so until this time, Communities require support from donations and grants. Groups working to set up Communities also rely on fundraising for the money to acquire a site and build or convert accommodation and set up the business. The Emmaus Federation Office fundraising team helps newer Communities and Groups in their fundraising, as well as raising money to pay for the other support services provided centrally.