Hop into op shop

Brotherhood of St Laurence Hoppers Crossing op shop volunteers Marelu Bossman, Teri Turner, Deborah Cooke and Maria Gandolfo. Photo by Damjan Janevski.

By Alesha Capone

A group of big-hearted volunteers is based at the Brotherhood of St Laurence op shop in Hoppers Crossing.

The store, which opened in its present location in October 2014, is staffed by volunteers from the Wyndham community.

Store manager Scott Parsons said the team enjoyed accepting donations and helping customers.

“Our team also enjoys the opportunity to socialise and create new friends while keeping busy and helping the community,” he said.

He said the store sold items including clothing, homewares, furniture, manchester, records and toys.

“Each purchase helps the Brotherhood of St Laurence fund our many different programs helping the community,” he said.

“The funds raised go towards funding the many different programs the BSL provide.

“Such programs include our aged care facility in Fitzroy, early learning centres for youngsters and families, Money Saver programs to learn how to manage your finances and helping disadvantaged youth prepare for getting a job.”

Mr Parsons said the best part of working at the shop was the regular customers.

“Some of our regulars will surprise our team and bring in a specially made cake, that feels really special,” he said.

The Brotherhood of St Laurence op shop is at 19 Elm Park Drive, Hoppers Crossing and is open from 9.30am to 5pm, Monday to Sunday, but is closed public holidays.

Phone 9749 2205 or see www.bsl.org.au or www.brotherhoodstores.com for details.