A Bolton homelessness charity is making two special giveaways to mark a very important date in its history.

Emmaus Bolton on February 1 will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Uprising of Kindness - a response to a nationwide radio address from its founder Abbé Pierre, which led to the opening of Emmaus sites across Europe.

And to note this special occasion Emmaus Bolton is giving away free draught excluders to every visitor to its charity shops and services off Fletcher Street - all of which are made from materials recycled by the organisation’s volunteers.

In the run up to the event, the charity is also inviting people to comment on their Facebook post, with the name of a local charitable cause they think would benefit most from a £100 charity shop voucher.

The recipient will be selected at random, with entries closing at midnight on January 31. 

Tony Stephenson, Director at Emmaus Bolton, said: “We want to give back to the people of Bolton. The Uprising of Kindness is an important part of the history of the Emmaus movement.

“It symbolises the moment our founders call to help others was answered by members of an entire nation of people. 

“We wanted to mark this occasion by giving back to our community and helping people in need.

“So, if you have a charity, you would like us to support, let us know on Facebook or if you would like a free and environmentally-friendly way of keeping warm, come and visit us on February 1.” 

Emmaus Bolton’s drive is part of a nationwide campaign by Emmaus UK, which is urging people to #BeMoreKind, celebrate acts of kindness and share experiences of kindness on social media.

To find out more about the many ways you can help others during this special anniversary year, download an information pack, by heading to: emmaus.org.uk/bemorekind/

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on X @chloewjourno.