THE borough's very own 'repair shop' is putting the love back into once much treasured items.
Emmaus Bolton, a charity which supports homeless people through providing accommodation, work and training, runs its own upcycling business.
And has restored more than 100 preloved items since last Valentine's Day.
This includes breathing life into old furniture.
The scheme provides training for those the charity helps and the sale of furniture raises funds for the Emmaus.
Charity beneficiary, Jacob, aged 28, was given a new focus at the repair shop following three months of sofa surfing.
Jacob, said: “I’ve not drank since I’ve come here and feel much better for it. I’d never thought about upcycling before, but there’s such a demand for it.
“Now I see it as a job opportunity or a self-run business.”
All homeless people moving into Emmaus Bolton are offered the chance to train in woodcraft and upcycling under the guidance of projects manager Phil Urmston.
Last year, Phil’s work attracted national attention with pieces put forward as prizes in a UK-wide gardening competition.
Phil said: “I like helping the community of people living here. It may only be a small contribution, but it’s one that can make a difference.
“Emmaus is keeping things from going into landfill by reusing and recycling, while reducing our carbon footprint.
“All the money that comes in keeps all the lads warm, safe and well fed.
“Here they know there is someone out there that cares about them.
“Everyone should have a roof over their head.”
Director Tony Stephenson said: “Emmaus Bolton’s aim is to be as self-sustainable as possible. We’re incredibly proud of our upcycling and bespoke woodwork service.
“These social enterprises support the model of a circular economy and shows there’s so much more you can do with secondhand items than send them straight to the tip.”
To donate furniture or find out more about the upcycling and bespoke woodwork service, visit Emmaus Bolton off Fletcher Street, BL3 6NF or visit: www.emmaus.org.uk/bolton/.
To donate furniture or find out more about the upcycling and bespoke woodwork service, visit Emmaus Bolton off Fletcher Street, BL3 6NF.
Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm or visit: www.emmaus.org.uk/bolton/.
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