A new treasure-trove of second-hand delights has opened its doors on Greenwood Street.
The bright blue signage of the newest Saint Vincent de Paul Society opportunity shop went out on Monday, with the store located in the old courier hub just down from the High Street corner.
The store is the 155-year-old charity's fourth in the wider region, joining the well-established outlets in Richmond, Stoke and Nelson.
Society members Robyn O’Gorman and Vickie Cameron are the president and vice president of the Motueka conference (or group) respectively. They say that while the local Saint Vincent de Paul service already provides assistance for people in need, the additional income from the shop will bolster this support.
“We can stretch it a bit further,” Vickie explains.
She says the Motueka group already helps with firewood, food vouchers, transport to medical appointments and meal bags donated by parishioners.
Retail manager Vanessa Donald says proceeds are kept local to support families in need.
“We have a great reputation for affordability, and we offer a range of clothing, furniture, linen and kitchenware,” she says. “We look forward to working alongside the other excellent op shops in Motueka to make it a varied shoppers’ destination.”
The first stock for the Motueka shop came from its neighbouring sister shops. However, as news of the opening spread, increasing numbers of local donations began arriving.
The volunteers say donation patterns differ from town to town, and surplus items are shared among Vinnies outlets across the region to help ensure that each offers a broad range of goods.
The volunteer roster is filling steadily, but more people are being sought for the three-hour shifts. Donations of goods are also welcome.
For more information, contact Vanessa on 027 361 0185.
The new Vinnies shop is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
