LOOKING for a sustainable, affordable outfit or some home decor?<\/p>\n
The new Vinnies op shop opened its doors on Tuesday morning in the Bridge Mall, and it\u2019s set to be run by a team of 20 local volunteers.<\/p>\n
With proceeds going to the emergency relief and social work of the St Vincent de Paul Society, volunteer Graham Watson said customers are encouraged to head down for a browse and a bargain<\/p>\n
The shop is large, easily accessible, and has about 6000 pieces of stock from clothing and homewares to books and towels.<\/p>\n
The former Ballarat Vinnies shop closed four years ago, and this new one – the state\u2019s 115th – is filling a gap.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s just fantastic to be able to serve the people of Ballarat and the eastern suburbs again, making it easier for them to find a bargain and have access to the services we provide,\u201d Mr Watson said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere is definitely a big need for Vinnies here.\u201d<\/p>\n
St Vincent de Paul Society reports their Wendouree Assistance Centre is constantly fully booked within opening hours, and social workers have seen a 300 per cent increase in clients in 2024.<\/p>\n
The Ballarat Assistance Centre in Dawson Street sees 50 clients a day, and sees 25 per cent more people than last year.<\/p>\n
Vinnies Group CEO Dr Jennifer Fitzgerald said the op shop is a \u201cbeacon of hope.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s why I hold a deep appreciation for the Vinnies Shop model, where every dollar spent goes back into our community, offering vital assistance and support,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a commitment we make to both our loyal customers and the vulnerable individuals who turn to us, often in their darkest hours.\u201d<\/p>\n
The shop is open at 75 Bridge Mall from 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 5pm on Sundays. Donations and new volunteers are welcome.<\/p>\n
Back with purpose: Volunteer Graham Watson said it feels good to have the Vinnies Bridge Mall shop open, following the closure of their central Ballarat store four years ago. Photo: SUPPLIED<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
LOOKING for a sustainable, affordable outfit or some home decor? The new Vinnies op shop opened its doors on Tuesday morning in the Bridge Mall, and it\u2019s set to be run by a team of 20 local volunteers. With proceeds going to the emergency relief and social work of the St Vincent de Paul Society, […]<\/p>\n