By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
DONATIONS at the Cranbourne Salvos store are at an all-time low.
Store manager Sheleen Humphrey has worked at the Cranbourne Salvos for four years and said she had never seen donations slump this low.
“In winter time it seems to slow down, we have no idea why,” Ms Humphrey said.
The store is currently running low in ladies and men’s clothing, books and bric-a-brac.
“We aren’t normally lacking in these items throughout the year and it does slow down through winter, but not to the extent it has at the moment,” she said.
After hours dumping is also a concern at the store and Ms Humphrey said the problem has increased since she started out as a volunteer five years ago.
“Hampton Park and Cranbourne experience a lot of dumping and I think it is partly due to the high tip fees.
“To dump a bed base at the tip is about $40 and its just becoming easier for people to dump it as the stores because they know it will get moved,” she said.
Ms Humphrey said every morning there would be anything from a bed base, to couches, mattresses, bags of clothes and bikes left at the back door.
“Most of what gets dumped after hours also gets rummaged through and is scattered around the back door, which is really sad because when it gets rained on we have to throw it out,” Ms Humphrey said.
Victims to theft, vandalism and subject to Melbourne’s weather, quality items dumped outside Salvos stores have to be removed at a cost to the Salvos.
Salvos Stores Waste and Sustainability Manager, Michael Skudutis said every year Salvos Stores across Australia spent more than $6 million disposing of rubbish and unsaleable goods.
“This is money which could be better used to serve the needs of those in the community,” Mr Skudutis said.
In the lead-up to National Op Shop Week kicking off on Sunday 23 August, all Salvos stores are urging the community to make a donation.
A spokesperson from The Salvos Stores said stock such as jumpers, jackets, hats, scarves and gloves ran low during winter due to the high demand.
“We would love your help in ensuring we have plenty in stock to keep everyone warm this winter by donating your good quality winter woolies to Salvos Stores,” they said.
Donations can be made at the Cranbourne Salvos every day between 9am and 5.30pm.
