OP SHOPS and charity stores have not been immune to store closures during the COVID-19 crisis, with Lifeline South East’s Mount Gambier, Millicent and Naracoorte sites among those to close due to ongoing public health concerns.
National Association of Charitable Recycling Organisations chief executive Omer Soker said the closure of op shops, combined with an increase in Australians finding themselves in need, had created a “perfect storm”.
Mr Soker said while many charity shops had closed, they were usually responsible for generating $550m annually to help people in need, including those most at risk of COVID-19 – the elderly, the sick and economically disadvantaged.
Believing some residents may clean out their wardrobes during the isolation period, Mr Soker urged people to be considerate of the current climate.
“If your favourite charity shop is closed, please do not leave your donations outside as they will become litter, which creates a huge cost to charities to clean it up,” he said.
“Please find a charity shop that is still safely managing to stay open, or a donation bin in your neighbourhood.
“If you cannot leave your home and must stay inside, please save up your quality donations for later.”
