Hospice shops plead for donations
Quality secondhand goods needed to keep hospice services going
Waipuna Hospice is in desperate need of donated goods to help care for the terminally ill. Waipuna Hospice charity shops, including the ones in Te Puke and Pa¯pa¯moa, are struggling to keep up with demand as donations to their shops drop.
In an urgent appeal, people are being asked to donate their quality secondhand goods to the shops so they can continue raising funds.
Waipuna Hospice’s retail business manager James Turner says the shops are desperate for donations of all kinds.
“Our donations are down by 20 per cent right now, but shopper demand has also grown by 20 per cent, so we currently have a 40 per cent shortfall. Our economy is tightening, and people are being more cautious about how they spend their money. Our charity shops are a fantastic solution for people, but we just aren’t getting enough stock in to keep up.”
Waipuna Hospice relies on the money raised at its charity shops to provide its services to people in the community facing end of life and bereavement, providing specialised palliative care and support.
“Last year Waipuna Hospice’s services cost $9.6 million to deliver, and while 51 per cent of that came in from our contract with the DHB, $4.7 million still had to be raised from the community. Our retail shops help us raise that crucial income, turning second hand goods into first-class care in our community. They are an essential part of our income stream, but they rely on quality donations to make that possible.”
Calling for anything from clothing and furniture, to homewares, books, de´cor and more, James says Waipuna Hospice needs help.
Secondhand goods are sold in six charity shops across the Western Bay of Plenty.
Waipuna Hospice’s appeal is a timely reminder to declutter, finding those outfits that haven’t been worn in months, the appliances you never use, or books you’ve already read and donate them — giving them a second chance to do some good.
“Whether you’re spring cleaning, downsizing homes, relocating, or just need to clear some space, please donate your unwanted items to us.”
To make the process as easy as possible, people can call 07 281 1755 to book in a donation collection, free of charge.
“We know it can be hard to make it to our shops to donate, which is why we have a free collection service. It makes donating to our shops even easier. Simply call the hotline and book a collection time that suits, and we’ll come to you.”
Donations can also be dropped into the shops during opening hours or the Tauranga depot in Brook St, behind the Fraser St shop.