Picture: Supplied
IT’S a labour of love for the volunteers at JackanAndys and Rye Beach op shops. Staffed by volunteers, they work tirelessly to process donations, sell them on to new owners, and in the process raise much-needed funds for charity.
But sometimes, the goods left on the doorstep are not resaleable, and are just plain rubbish that amount to costly dumping for the op shops.
“Our rubbish removal costs have increased considerably because some of the donations are dirty, broken and unsuitable for sale,” said the president of the two op shops, Beverley Baltissen. “Our shops take great pride in recycling and selling good quality clothes, bric-a-brac, China and glassware to our communities. It is becoming increasingly difficult as people dump goods that really should go to the tip,” said Baltissen.
“Our volunteers work tirelessly, unpacking bags and boxes and pricing goods at reasonable prices so that all our communities can buy what their families need in these difficult economic times. “We especially care for the homeless on the peninsula, and that has become an increasing focus for our op shops. “It is just such a pity that some people take advantage of the situation, and use us as a way to avoid tip fees.”
The two Anglican op shops financially contribute to fire brigades, SES, Rosebud Hospital, Sorrento Ambulance, Southern Peninsula Community Care, Toorgarook Primary School, Rye Primary School, Sorrento Primary School, Dromana Secondary College, Sorrento Bowling Club, Sorrento Community Centre Child Care, local football and netball teams and Peninsula Home Hospice, plus many more.
“Our team of volunteers love what they do, and through their hard work, we help those in need,” said Baltissen.
“We’d just like to spread the word that we are spending more of the money we raise for charity on rubbish removal, and that is a pity, “And, of course, drop in and see what we do best. We love volunteering, having fun together each week ensuring our customers get a bargain and enjoy the experience.”
JackanAndys Op Shop is located at 848 Melbourne Rd, Sorrento and Rye Beach Op Shop is located at 2279 Point Nepean Rd, Rye.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 21 August 2024
