Can you help create a home for the homeless in South Tyneside?

Stanhope Road's homeless house development by charity Emmaus.

Emmaus, a charity for the homeless, is transforming a former children’s home in Stanhope Road, South Shields.

The building, which was derelict for many years, will be suitable to home up to 15 adults, who are known as companions, when it’s complete later this year.

Terry Waite gave a speech at the Customs House on behalf of Emmaus.

The social enterprise, which is the first of its kind within the region, will also see the companions employed full time, at a yet to be decided venue, which will also be ran by Emmaus, in the town centre.

However, the charity is now hosting an event in a bid to recruit volunteers who could help out with fundraising, decorating, staffing and various other roles.

The team has organised an information session on June 4, between 10am and 11.30am at Hospitality and Hope in Hampden Street Operations Centre, Hampden Street, South Shields.

Sue Wilson, chairwoman of Emmaus North East. “We would love to meet people that would like to help us out.

“I’d also like to say a big thanks to our friends from Hospitality and Hope who have allowed us to use their lovely café area.

“Work is progressing well on our refurbishment and we hope to welcome  our first resident companions in the autumn or even earlier.

“We have been thrilled with the support we have received from neighbours and supporters.”

The building team has been hard at work replacing the roof, installing new windows removing all the dry rot, damp timbers and plasterwork.

Sue added: “We are making good progress but would dearly appreciate donations of building materials including plaster board, copper pipes and sanitary ware.

“If you can donate materials please do get in touch.

“It is also possible to put your name to a companion’s room for £2,000 – this will make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Last month humanitarian, and charity president Terry Waite, who was held captive held captive for 1,763 days after visiting Lebanon in 1987 as a peace envoy, visited the Customs House in South Shields, to tell  people the project is something the borough could be proud of.

To confirm attendance, or to donate materials, email to [email protected]