LIFELINE’S Central Road op shop will be back in business by mid-September and donations from the public are now being accepted.
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The store has been out of business for the last three months after a devastating fire ripped through the building causing more than $50,000 worth of damage to stock.
The fire, lit in the clothing bin located outside the store, was a devastating blow for the business which itself is a financial lifeline for the provision of the organisation’s telephone crisis support service.
Catherine Vaara, CEO of Lifeline Mid Coast said the arson attack on Lifeline’s Central Road store sent a shockwave not only through Lifeline Mid Coast’s many volunteers and staff but throughout the whole community.
“Three months ago the shop was the victim of a senseless arson attack. With the generosity of many individuals and business and the dedication of our volunteers and staff, the shop is set to reopen in September. Shop fire damaged fittings and shelves have been replaced and are standing empty and ready for our volunteers to fill. With this in mind, the shop is ready to start receiving good quality donations,” Ms Vaara said.
Shop Manager Troy Terp is thrilled the Lifeline shop is close to being back on track.
“It will be a big relief to open our doors to the public again. Our volunteers have reported feeling lost over the past few months and they are eager to bounce back into action,” Mr Terp said.
With National Op Shop Week from Sunday, August 24, now is the time to have a pre-spring clean and make a valuable donation, Lifeline Mid North Coast marketing coordinator Lisa Willows said.
Lifeline shops in Port Macquarie and Wauchope will be raising awareness of the important role of charity op shops in the Hastings community. All proceeds from donations to and purchases at charity op shops support the work undertaken by the charities across the Hastings to help people in need.
“In the case of Lifeline, all proceeds channelled through the shops goes to suicide prevention and awareness services. Lifeline is there for anyone who wants to talk or chat with them at any time.”
This year, all Lifeline shops on the Mid North Coast will be giving away free goats soap with every purchase over $30.
The Lifeline Shop on Central Road is accepting donations in order to be fully stocked in time for a mid-September opening.
If you would like to donate any good quality items, drop them off at the back of the shop at 19 Central Road, or alternatively phoning for pick up on 6581 3644.