Bargain buys uplift the community and raises funds for Saint Giles
Browse the aisle of the charity shop at Saint Giles to find bargain buys.
As non-profit organisation Saint Giles marks its 70th birthday this month, there is plenty to celebrate. The centre boasts several successful projects, including a remedial therapy centre as well as a work centre that employs people with disabilities. In a weekly series, Berea Mail will discover more about Saint Giles. In this, the final article in the series, we visit the charity shop to find out more about thrifting for a good cause.
THE Charity Shop at Saint Giles offers affordable wares to the surrounding community, while raising funds for the organisation’s work. Founded years ago, the shop was renovated in 2010 to create a comfortable shopping experience for wheelchair-bound patrons or those using crutches.
“The charity shop serves as a reception for the organisation and is often the first touchpoint for potential donors. At present, the charity shop just breaks even on costs but if there is a profit this goes towards the overall aim of the organisation which is providing service and support to the disabled. The shop also rents out and occasionally sells mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers and crutches,” said Brenda Craig, marketing, donor and fundraising liason for Saint Giles.
Shop manager Tim Isaacs has worked at the store since October 2016.
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“A lot of people in our area live from hand to mouth – they are looking for bargains. The charity shop offers affordable items, so they don’t have to travel into town and pay exorbitant prices. The shop is a great help to people in these low-income groups,” he said.
Among the highlights of his year’s at the shop are his interactions with the south Durban community.
“When people come to shop, they often share their life experiences. There are a lot of homes for the elderly in this area, and elders who come here to shop will share their joys and sorrows as they look through the aisles. It is always a plus when I can assist people as they share the challenges they are facing,” said Isaacs.
Despite a tough period during the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown, Isaacs says the store stayed afloat.
“During Covid-19, sales dropped drastically. We used to have three staff members, including a teller and manager – two of our staff lost their jobs during the pandemic,” said Isaacs who now tackles all three roles single-handedly, keeping the charity shop doors open to the public.
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While the store stocks a range of wares, Isaacs said homeware items are in high demand.
“We are desperately looking for kitchen goodies such as pots, pans, plates, cups and electrical appliances such as toasters, microwaves and kettles. Appliances must be in working order, as we don’t have anyone on site who can repair items. We are currently low on clothing, furniture and kitchen items,” said Isaacs.
The shop welcomes donations, as long as items are in decent condition for sale and Isaacs is available to collect donations from people’s homes.
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