Betty’s long life of giving
90-year-old volunteers for 38 years
NOTCHING up close to 40 years of volunteering is just one of 90-year-old Betty Reid’s achievements.
The Toowoomba woman turned 90 on Sunday and said she had so far enjoyed a long life, which for a long time was dedicated to helping those less fortunate.
These days, about once a month, you will find Ms Reid at The Good Samaritan Shop, which sells second-hand clothing and goods.
It is something she has done for about 38 years after retiring from her job of 35 years in a Toowoomba accountant’s office.
“I came down here to volunteer and work with my friends,” she said.
“It is a lot of fun, we have a lot of fun.
“Serving customers, sorting clothes, raising money for charities around the district.”
The Good Samaritan Shop distributes its funds to different charities every three months.
Ms Reid spent her birthday attending church before enjoying lunch with some family at Picnic Point. Her fellow volunteers then hosted a surprise morning tea for her this week.
Her friends at The Good Samaritan Shop commented that she looked wonderful for her age, something Ms Reid said was no secret.
“I have a lot of good family and friends and I am very thankful I have had good health. That goes a long way doesn’t it?” she said.
Ms Reid has three children as well as nine grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and nine great great grandchildren, who she said kept her busy.
She said one of the highlights of her life so far was attending her grandson’s wedding in Wales, England when she was 87.
“I went for my 80th birthday too. They took me over to England and a trip to Europe. That was quite a highlight, I was thankful to be able to do that,” she said.
“I am just overwhelmed and so very thankful for wonderful family and caring friends.”
The Good Samaritan Shop has been operating for 40 years this February and has about 65 volunteers. Find them at 20 Bowen St.