Opportunity to help at Vinnies

By Kath Gannaway
THE St Vincent De Paul opportunity shop in Warburton is looking for helpers.
While tourists and locals love the idea of having their local ‘Vinnies’ open on weekends, the move to seven day trading has put pressure on their dedicated band of volunteers.
St Vincent’s zone manager Neil Harvey said while staff are thankful they have had some success in getting volunteers for the weekends, more are needed.
The shop has its own ute to pick up donations and so a driver and jockey are high on Mr Harvey’s wish list.
Volunteers are also needed for sorting goods and assisting customers and people of all ages and from all walks of life are likely candidates.
Jenny Morrow-Canty has been a Vinnies volunteer for several years.
She says there are lots of benefits, from getting to know the local community to the personal satisfaction of knowing the funds which flow from the shop go to help people in need.
Mr Harvey said the Warburton volunteers have the added satisfaction of knowing the money they are helping to raise stays in the area.
With the need for assistance in Upper Yarra communities increasing day by day, he said volunteering with Vinnies is one way people can play an active role in alleviating hardship at a local level.
Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering at Vinnies can pop into the shop in the main street or phone 5966 2036.