A NEW initiative is promising to get Lancashire's homeless people off the streets, off benefits and into work.

The Emmaus project aims to form a self-sufficient community providing shelter and work, paying for itself by repairing and selling unwanted goods and furniture. It is hoped the Preston base will house up to 25 homeless people within two years and 40 after four years.

It has been set up by a group of Lancashire businessmen and should cost between £500,000 and £750,000. The organisers are now looking for a suitable site which will include including workshop space.

Preston has been chosen because of its central location to other towns such as Blackburn, Blackpool and Lancaster.

The scheme was launched at the University of Central Lancashire which will buy the revamped furniture for accommodation.

Ian Wells, of the Emmaus Lancashire Steering Group, said:" We have had a great response to the launch meeting. We handed out forms and around 80 people have signed up already."

The project team is appealing for volunteers, money and premises in Preston to get the ball rolling. Contact Ian Wells on (01772) 813267 if you can help.

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