New hospice shop thriving (October, 2007)

Arohanui Hospice's new retail shop at 34 Ngata Street is flourishing. The spacious new premises provide a much enhanced setting for customers and volunteers, who work under the direction of Retail Shop Co-ordinator Pamela Roelants. Pam has been with the Hospice for 8 years, working in the administration area, but earlier this year she transferred to the shop, after enjoying a temporary stint there.

Pam says she is relishing her new position and she wants to thank all the volunteers who support her by sorting, pricing and stocking the shelves, to make the showroom presentation look interesting. "This is obviously appreciated by our many customers. They love seeing new items every time they come in. I truly appreciate the efforts of our volunteers, who are responsible for ensuring that the shop succeeds as a major hospice fundraiser. I would also like to say a big thank you to all our customers and to those who have made donations to our shop."

Pam says the shop's new location is excellent, with customer parking outside the door. Bigger premises means furniture and larger items can be sold, including a small car earlier this year! By supporting the shop, customers volunteers and those who donate items, are all helping to ensure that hospice care is provided free to patients and their families.

Donations of good quality furniture, clothes and other items including antiques are always appreciated and can be picked up if necessary. Anyone interested in becoming a shop volunteer, or in driving the hospice truck to pick up/deliver items, please contact Pam on 356 1960 or visit the shop. Retired electricians also sought.

Picture: some of the volunteers who work in the shop's back room, sorting clothes and other donations. From left: Merren Henry, Chris Crossan, Roger Astwood, Pat Nation, Margaret Evans, Margot Woolley, Merlin Sampson, Audrey Pretious.