THE demographic of shoppers at Vinnies stores has changed a lot since Terri Johnson started volunteering 10 years ago.
“More people are buying secondhand now,” Ms Johnson said.
“I notice people are conscious of the amount of waste going to landfill.
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READ NOW“People are also just getting more savvy with how they spend their money.”
Ms Johnson started as a volunteer with Vinnies (St Vincent de Paul Society) before taking up a position as area manager and now works as project manager preparing stores for opening.
She is overseeing the non-profit organisation’s latest store in Osborne Park, which will open on June 20.
Its original depot was based in Osborne Park before moving to Canning Vale several years ago.
“We’ve definitely needed a presence here in Osborne Park,” Ms Johnson said.
The organisation is seeking 80 to 100 volunteers to help run the store, with people able to commit as little as four hours per week and no experience needed.
“It gives you a great sense of worth,” she said.
“You make some great friendships (and) you never know where it will take you.”
The Osborne Park shop is being stocked with items from the depot, from clothing and accessories to artwork and children’s toys, but after opening people will be able to donate directly to the store.
Ms Johnson encouraged people to donate items in good condition as Vinnies did not have resources to fix them.
“If you wouldn’t give it to a friend, don’t give it to us,” she said.
Vinnies Osborne Park will open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm at unit 2, 443 Scarborough Beach Road.
To volunteer, inquire in store or online.