The Animal Rescue Organisation (ARO) is looking for second-hand goods for the relaunch of its charity shop.
The shot, which opened at 51 Main Road, Bergvliet, in 2011, is in need of a facelift, according to ARO chairperson Geraldine Scaife, of Constantia.
“Through the sale of second-hand goods, we have raised funds from the day we started operating in 1986. The shops in Bergvleit and Kalk Bay are a vital source of income to cover most of the costs of our animal hospital based in Ottery and mobile clinics,” said Ms Scaife.
The Bergvliet shop is large enough to accommodate furniture, which Ms Scaife says is very popular with customers.
“There is excellent parking, which makes it easy for donors to drop off goods. It’s also a good drop-off point for our appeals, such as newspapers and dog and cat food.”
The shop stocks vintage clothes, books, children’s toys, kitchenware, antiques and more. Popular items at the moment are warm clothes, coats and heaters.
“Patrons find all sorts of treasures, and collectors of antiques and vintage clothes are regular customers,” said Maureen Shanker, of Retreat, who has worked at the shop for two years. “I love chatting with the customers and helping them find the bargains they are looking for, but the main reason I love what I do is because I know every purchase is helping animals in need.”
Other staff are Cheryl Bekker, of Bergvliet, and Carol Bishop, of Muizenberg.
The shop needs more stock for it relaunch in July. “Now that winter has arrived, the donations of household items have slowed. It’s a good time to go through cupboards, storage spaces and wardrobes and clear out things that are gathering dust. Those unused items can make a huge difference in the lives of the animals that need veterinary care,” said ARO’s head of fund-raising, Lindsey Concer.
Donations can be dropped at the shop in Bergvliet or at the Kalk Bay shop, at 70 Main Road, Kalk Bay. For collection, call 021 396 5511 or email reception@animalrescue.org.za. The shop is open Monday to Friday, from 9.30am to 4.30pm, and on Saturdays, from 9am to 1pm.
