Homelessness charity Emmaus Mossley is inviting supporters and members of the local community to join a Teddy Bears’ Picnic in celebration of the first birthday of their mascot, Bear.

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic charity event will take place on Thursday 10 August at Lucie’s Café, inside the Emmaus Mossley Secondhand Superstore. The free event is an opportunity for children and their families to come together for a fun afternoon over the summer holidays. 

Molly Ridgway, a volunteer and organiser of the Teddy Bears’ Picnic at Emmaus Mossley, said: “Bear became the Emmaus Mossley mascot after appearing in a number of social media posts and increasingly being recognised amongst our supporters. 

“I think it’s really important that we get together to celebrate a year of Bear, but also to bring people together for a free and fun activity during the summer holidays. This isn’t just about Bear though – we’re encouraging all of our supporters to bring their favourite teddy bear to join us at the picnic too!”

Emmaus Mossley supports people who have experienced homelessness by providing a home, work, companionship and individual support. The charity’s large Secondhand Superstore sells a wide range of donated and upcycled furniture, household goods, clothes, toys, books and music, with all proceeds helping to sustain the work of the charity.

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic event will be in the style of ‘The Big Lunch’ events previously hosted by Emmaus Mossley. Everyone is invited to bring some food or cakes to donate and share with fellow attendees. The Big Lunch brings millions of people together to share friendship, food and fun as the UK’s annual celebration for neighbours and communities. 

Hazel Hodkinson, Retail Manager at Emmaus Mossley, said: “We’re really looking forward to this event for our young supporters and their families to enjoy during the summer holidays. Bear and Molly have made a great impact at our community, and the Teddy Bears’ Picnic promises to be a fun-filled afternoon which brings people together with their favourite teddy bears.”

The Teddy Bears’ Birthday Picnic will take place on Thursday 10 August, 1pm – 3pm, at Emmaus Mossley, Longlands Mill, Queen Street, Mossley, OL5 9AH. 

To find out more and support Emmaus Mossley head to https://emmaus.org.uk/mossley/.