Save money on shopping: Charity shop reveals new Christmas department

A charity shop in Leicestershire is already getting in the festive spirit with the opening of a dedicated Christmas department. The homelessness charity Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland, which runs the Emporium charity shop in Stockwell Head, Hinckley, believes it is the biggest department of its kind in the area.

There are pre-used decorations, re-usable Christmas trees and all kinds of festive clothing. And every purchase helps to fund Emmaus's ongoing work to support people who have experienced homelessness in the county.

The setting up of the Christmas department was made possible thanks to volunteers from Coventry Building Society, who dedicated a day to unpacking boxes of donated Christmas items, decorating trees and arranging festive displays to transform the space.

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Dawn Wright, director of Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland, said: “We’re incredibly thankful to the volunteers from Coventry Building Society who dedicated their time and energy to help us set up our Christmas department. From tackling mountains of donations to decorating trees – and getting covered in glitter in the process – their support has made a real difference and we couldn’t have done it without them.”

Emmaus Leicestershire & Rutland provides accommodation, support, training, and work opportunities for people who have experienced homelessness. The charity’s Emporium shop helps people buy cheaper second-hand goods while also raising money for Emmaus.

Dawn said: “This Christmas, we’re encouraging everyone to consider buying second-hand rather than new. By shopping with us, you’ll not only find unique and affordable festive items, but you’ll also be supporting your local homelessness charity. So, before you start decorating or buying gifts, why not pop in, grab a bargain and help people move on from homelessness?"

The Emmaus Emporium’s Christmas department is open Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 5pm, until Christmas Eve. Visit the Emporium at Stockwell Head, Hinckley LE10 1RG.