Emmaus Cornwall has announced a book launch event for its anthology Street Life, a collection of short stories that depict homelessness in many forms: human, animal, in the city, countryside, and even in the world of ghosts. 

Each story has been donated to the homelessness charity by best-selling authors with links to the South West, including Bruce Aiken, Helen Garlick and Elizabeth Revill, who curated the collection. Graphic design, typesetting, formatting and proofreading were also provided free of charge.  

All are welcome at the free launch event on Saturday, October 21 from 5:30pm at the Carlyon Bay Hotel Golf Club (PL25 3RD). Two contributing authors will be present to read excerpts from their stories and provide insights into the book’s themes. 

Emmaus Cornwall trustee Sue Trewella said: “We hope our book launch event will offer an opportunity for local residents to support our mission to open accommodation in Cornwall for those who need it most, and learn more about the many forms of homelessness.” 

All profits from book sales will go to Emmaus Cornwall to support the establishment of an Emmaus community in Cornwall, providing accommodation, work experience, training, and tailored support for individuals who have experienced homelessness. 

There are already 30 established Emmaus communities across the UK, supporting more than 850 formerly homeless people. In addition, there are three Emmaus groups, including Emmaus Cornwall, all working towards setting up a community in their area.  

Social enterprise is central to the Emmaus model as it provides meaningful work opportunities for people supported by Emmaus, who are expected to sign off all benefits except for housing benefit, and generates the funding needed to maintain the communities.  

Street Life is priced at £9.99 and is available from The Book Shop in Wadebridge, Blue Poppy Publishing and Amazon. Copies will be available to purchase at the launch event.