The flagship hospice shop has played a vital role in helping the Otago Community Hospice raise vital funds through the tough times of the pandemic.
And, despite being closed for 10 weeks across the past two years, the shop generated $437,000 in funds for the hospice in the last financial year — all while operating with heavily reduced opening hours and volunteer numbers.
The Vogel St Hospice Shop opened two and a-half years ago, just before the first Covid-19 lock down in March, 2020, which was dispiriting for the hospice and the team.
However, it has shown itself to be the jewel in the crown since then.
Vogel St Hospice Shop manager Taarn Scott said every day at the shop was "action packed", with hundreds of donated items coming in and going out every day.
“No two days are the same — we never know what’s going to come through the doors," Ms Scott said.
"The place is buzzing. I think it makes a difference that our team of staff and volunteers are all super friendly, fun and welcoming.
“While the last two years have really impacted on the shops hours — with many volunteers unable to work and staff fluctuations — we are now righting ourselves and excited to be reopening on Sundays from October 2.
"We are also developing our basement into a $2 shop," she said.
The basement shop is next to the downstairs book shop, and customers will soon be able to access it by a door on Vogel St.
As things ramp up at the Vogel St Hospice shop, volunteers are urgently needed to help in all areas of the store — the main top floor, the book shop and the soon-to-open $2 basement.
Volunteers are a crucial part of the hospice fundraising puzzle, with every volunteer’s gift of time contributing directly to first-class palliative care in the Otago community.
Otago Community Hospice will hold an information session for potential volunteers on Thursday, September 15, at 6pm.
For details, email Rebecca at volunteer@otagohospice.co.nz
Staff Reporter
