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Just eight weeks after opening, Warkworth’s Community Shop has handed over two cheques for $3000 each to two local community organisations.
Warkworth Fire Brigade and Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge are the inaugural recipients of proceeds from the shop at 41 Queen Street (behind Bayleys Real Estate), which opened on May 30.
Co-managers John McEwing and Christine Hannah say they are delighted with the community’s support for the shop.
“We are in unchartered territory so to get such a positive response, particularly at what is probably the quietest time of the year, is really encouraging,” they say.
Warkworth Fire Brigade will put its donation towards the cost of holding its 75th anniversary later this year, which will include a number of public events.
Women’s Refuge administrator Marlene Walker says providing food is one of the biggest demands they face in supporting women and children, so the money will help stock cupboards. It will also be used to help women meet the travel costs associated with accessing legal aid in Auckland.
John says both organisations rely heavily on volunteers to deliver essential services to local residents and reflect what a strong community spirit is all about.
Both the fire brigade and the women’s refuge expressed their thanks and appreciation for the donations.
A special morning tea was held at the cheque hand-over on August 2 to also thank the volunteers who help run the shop.
“We’ve got a core group of about 20 volunteers, plus a couple of people who donate their time and vehicles to pickup and deliver goods. They are doing an amazing job,” John says.
The shop welcomes donations, which can be left at the shop during normal business hours, or for pick-ups, phone 021 0261 3766.
