Victor Harbor Op Shop Delivering Fun to Disadvantaged School Communities

The fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant that many businesses and families within our local community continue to do it tough.

The Victor Harbor ADRA Op Shop sees all too often the vulnerability and disadvantage many are facing. Manager Dawn Peterson, alongside approximately 35 other volunteers at ADRA Op Shop are committed to supporting those in need and bringing about positive social change in our community.

This was the drive behind their recent support package ‘Pride Boxes’, which will be distributed to approximately 20 schools on the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island.

“Pride Boxes are made up of donations from the local community and include items such as small toys, coloured pencils, stickers, key rings, card games, stencils, erasers, bouncy balls and other fun things.”

Dawn Peterson, Manager of ADRA Op Shop.

“We were hearing that there was a great deal of need within the school community for these types of fun items, especially for children within families that have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and the bushfires on Kangaroo Island,” she said.

“Teachers use these items to reward students and encourage them in their efforts on special projects and tests, but all too often the teachers are paying out of their own pockets.

“Those on the frontline of the school community are able to see what children need the support the most. It ensures donations are going to those that are truly disadvantaged,” Dawn said.

Dawn’s team also donate stationery boxes to schools throughout the local area.

“None of this would be possible without the support and donations of the local community and the work of our wonderful volunteers,” she said.

ADRA Op Shop have also recently started a ‘Wedding Room’ and are calling on donations for wedding items, such as used wedding dresses, veils, bridesmaids dresses or wedding paraphernalia.

You can visit or donate to ADRA Op Shop at Maude Street, Victor Harbor.

This story was written by Renee Ancell for Business Victor Harbor.