WINTER is here and Horsham’s opportunity stores are calling for donations for warm winter clothes as stock is extremely low.
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Horsham Red Cross volunteer Paul Henstridge said donations for clothes tended to be low during winter – however, stock is at its lowest level this year.
“Normally, when we are low on stock we could make requests to head office – but they told every Red Cross store, who are in the same position as us, that they have no winter stock available,” he said.
Mr Henstridge said he found himself feeling disappointed when he could not help customers find the warm clothes they were searching for.
“We’ve had men come in looking for jackets and it’s saddening to say, ‘sorry this is all we have’,” he said.
“Normally, our men’s section is quite small, and we are looking to change that, but it’s hard when we aren’t getting donations.
“It has come to the point where we had to undress our mannequins to show that we need more stock.”
Horsham Red Cross volunteer Lisa Rodgers has urged people to take a look through their wardrobe.
“Everyone has clothes they might wear, but never do. Instead, people need to donate those clothes because it would go a long way for others looking to stay warm this winter,” she said.
“All the clothes donated to us stay here.
“We sort through the clothing and find what’s appropriate for our store, but usually we have a go at selling everything that is donated.”
Ms Rodgers said people could donate via the metal bin on McLachlan Street or at the Firebrace Street store.
Horsham Salvation Army’s Raelene Johnston said the thrift shops always needed donations of blankets and warm clothing.
“We rely on the community to make donations and we are really appreciative when they do because every item counts,” she said.
Horsham’s Christian Emergency Food Centre client assessment manager Bev Miatke said demand for assistance from her organisation was slowly rising again.
“It is that time of year when utility bills are beginning to take a bite and people are in need of help,” she said.
Mrs Miatke said people did not realise the scope of need within the community.
“On average, we have 50 clients a week who are also providing for their families as well, so we are helping up to 70 people a week,” Mrs Miatke said.
“We are always accepting donations – whether it be non-perishables, excess fruit and vegetables or knitwear or blankets.
“Every bit counts.”
