Local Legend - The Opportunity Shop - Not just an Op Shop
Published on May 13, 2022
It’s Monday morning, The Opportunity Shop is closed to the public, but a group of dedicated ladies is already at work, ready to begin sorting, pricing and cleaning the shop.
This is not just an act of service or goodwill for these wonderful women, it’s a chance to catch up with friends, have a cup of tea and work together. Gwyneth Harris, an ex-primary school teacher from Levin Normal School, has dedicated 22 years of service to this shop.
“Having somewhere to go every day of the week gives you a sense of purpose, there’s no point in staying at home.” says Gwyneth, “I like to meet people, converse and I find it interesting to see what comes in.”
The Opportunity Shop was originally started by a group of churches and has gone from strength to strength.
Marie Vaney, who moved to Levin in 1987, quickly realised the opportunity to start a local shop with donated goods to raise money in the community. Marie was a part of the Catholic Women’s League, and they joined up with others in the community to create this communal space.
A range of donated items is organised and sold in the shop, this money is divided and evenly distributed to the churches involved. Each organisation decides how they give out the money – from the people, for the people. Recently, goods and donations have been sent to Tonga to help with the Volcanic Emergency Relief Fund. It’s also gifted to local groups, and used to help those in need in the community, like the Ambulance, hospital shuttles and Riding for the Disabled.
In 2004, money, clothing and other items were donated to families affected by the Foxton floods. “I can remember cows floating down the river, houses were ruined, it was a terrible event,” said Margaret Burnell, who has also been involved as a Committee member, treasurer and volunteer for over 22 years at The Opportunity Shop. Having people in our community who give their time and service to keep op shops like this one open is a real treat.
If you would like to help out in this cute little op shop, drop in and see them between 10am and 3pm, Tuesday to Saturday at 119 Oxford Street, Levin - just opposite the Council building. They are always on the look-out for new volunteers and friends.