Money helps locally

The Matamata Red Cross shop sells more than second hand goods, although they do still need donations of those, the shop coordinator Leanne Montague said.

The shop and the volunteers are very appreciative of the donations they have received already from locals but also need more, she said.

They are especially grateful for the labelled clothing like World, Annah Stretton, Trelise Cooper, Kelvin Kline and Stella McCartney that have been donated.

Those higher fashion clothes gain more money for the non- profit organisation and Matamata residents benefit from that. The money is used locally to help fund the health shuttle.

The money is also used to provide refugee services and pathways to employment and restoring family links.

The Matamata Red Cross shop, like many shops around the country, also still provide funds to the Christchurch Earthquake fund Red Cross regional manager Bronwyn Tubman said.

Montague has also started selling new Ed Hardy, Vans, Dickies and Pumas clothing and shoes at the Red Cross shop. The level one shop, the highest status a Red Cross shop can be, accepts donations such as clothing, shoes and furniture but not electrical goods. Anything that is not sold at the shop after a certain time is then taken to a level two shop. If the item does not sell there it is bailed up and sent to India.