South Dunedin set to benefit from new community op shop

19 June 2014

South Dunedin set to benefit from new community op shop

One of South Dunedin’s most beloved hidden gems, the Orphans Aid Opshop, is set to step into the limelight. After four years in its humble quarters at 168 Hillside Road, it’s made the move around the corner to 145 King Edward Street.

The move has been made possible by volunteers spending countless hours, putting in the hard yards of seeing the new premises renovated and ready to open its doors for the grand opening at 12 noon Monday 23rd June. With prizes and giveaways lasting all week, everyone is invited. Locals have also donated tables, clothing racks, paint and a microwave for the volunteer staff room.

A historic building in its own right, 145 King Edward Street has farewelled it’s occupier of over 50 years, Arthur Thomas Shoes, and opened its heart to the Orphans Aid Opshop. “The community op shop has been known for its affordable clothing and household goods. It really provides a service to the community in these tough economic times – helping families with practical items that don’t cost the earth” says Dunedin born Orphans Aid Opshop Manager Hilary Campbell.

For those who grew up coming to the Arthur Thomas shop for their school shoes, they can still reminisce, as the iconic shoe shop has moved across the road to 138 King Edward Street. Mr David Thomas, says he is “thrilled that the Orphans Aid Opshop will be serving the community from our old shop, just as we have done.”

Not only has it been supporting its own community, but all proceeds raised from the op shop are being used for the work of Orphans Aid International – an Otago based New Zealand charity caring for orphans and abandoned children in Romania, Russia, India, Bhutan and Uganda – not to mention helping children and families in Aotearoa. Otago resident and founder of the trust, Sue van Schreven, couldn’t be more excited, “The larger premises will mean more of everything – plus new Fair Trade items that we have never had in Dunedin before. The move will help us reach out wider in South Dunedin. We really want the local community to benefit.”

We asked shop manager Mrs Campbell, how on earth the shop makes a profit while selling items so cheaply. She replied, “We rely totally on the generosity of our wonderful team of volunteers, and on the donations of unwanted quality items from our community. Every purchase actually helps orphans.”

If you would like to volunteer your time in the growing team-effort, or you are able to donate quality unwanted clothing, household goods or furniture, please drop into the shop and speak with Mrs Hilary Campbell, or phone her on 03 455 2465 during open hours. To learn more about the work that Orphans Aid International is doing in New Zealand and abroad, or to make a donation, visit the www.orphansaidinternational.org website.

ENDS

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