An urgent appeal has gone out from the Letterkenny St. Vincent de Paul charity shops for volunteers and donations. With Christmas fast approaching, the appeal takes on even more importance as those in need strive to survive.
“We need volunteers badly and we also need donations of all sorts except electrical items,” insists Olga Hossack.
The St. Vincent de Paul charity shops have been a presence in Letterkenny for up to a quarter of a century and represent a major source of funds for the organisation.
“Our shop on Lower Main Street has been operating for the guts of 25 years,” says Olga.
It had previously gone under the name of ‘Déjà Vu’ and was originally located further down Lower Main Street. The premises at Station Roundabout, meanwhile, has been going for up to three years.
The St. Vincent de Paul shop at the Station Roundabout has nine volunteers while the corresponding shop has around fifteen.
But both outlets require more personnel to help them operate.
“The two shops are badly stuck for the afternoons. The volunteers we have work mainly in the mornings so we definitely need more for the afternoon shifts. We would need them to work for three hours if it is possible.”
Donations are also urgently needed at both locations. “I hate mentioning the ‘C’ word at this time of the year but in the run up to Christmas we do need donations. While we’re not taking toys generally we do want boxed toys and also things like gift sets, anything that people can use for presents.
“We also badly need bags, carrier bags of any description and any amount for both shops,” Olga appealed.
Those involved in running the two Vincent de Paul shops are always grateful for all the support they receive and have received over the years.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everybody for their ongoing support. We do have some really, really loyal customers who help keep the shops going.”
“Those who donate to the two outlets provide bags of clothes, shoes, household items, books, curtains, bed spreads and so forth,” remarks Pat Slattery who is also involved with the local St. Vincent de Paul Society.
“Pre-loved items of clothing that are good enough for sale have to be ironed, labelled, hanged and displayed with only very reasonable payments requested. Most of this work is undertaken by volunteers and people on community employment schemes.
“The Vincent’s shops management team create a joyful, friendly and rewarding environment. The shops are very busy and so require a large number of volunteers.”
Pat adds: ‘We are eternally grateful to all our volunteers for their selfless giving and dedication. Without them, our ability to help those in need would not be possible.”
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