It could be for out of necessity or seeking a curio or finding the right fancy dress but whatever the reason the Op Shop remains a vital part of our community. 

And once again the many hard working volunteers at the Op Shop Charity Singleton have redistributed their profits back to community groups.

This year they were able to give eight organisations a cheque for $6500 -a  tremendous boost for each group.

The groups assisted are Uniting Care (Elizabeth Gates/Alroy), Calvary Retirement Community Cooinda, Mercy Rest, Palliative Care, Hospital Auxiliary, Cancer Assist, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Singleton Support Group and the lower ground floor at the Singleton Hospital.

A casual ceremony was held last Wednesday to hand out the generous donations and secretary Robyn Bendiech told the group their successful fundraising record can be attributed to “keeping it local.”

She also paid special tribute to their 30 members who spend hours manning the shop, and sorting through all the various donations.

“However, without the community support, being able to provide this financial support to other charities, simply would not happen,” Mrs Bendiech said.

Singleton Westpac Rescue Helicopter volunteer support group chairperson Jayne Eather says they will use the money to purchase children’s rescue capsules and the accompanying helmets.

The group raise money for the Hunter region’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and the capsules are worth about $1650 each.

“They allow children to be winched safely through the air during a rescue and also float should that be required,” she explains.

Lyn Paix from Cancer Assist says the money will be put toward the eventual purchase of a new cap that prevents cancer patients from losing their hair during treatment.

“They cost $40 000 – so given that price tag we are looking for a partner to help us purchase one,” she says.

The shop is located at 219 John Street and opened Monday (9.30am to 3pm) to Saturday (9.30am to 11.45am).