Monday 29 October 2018

In response to Pope Francis’ call to action for World Day of the Poor, groups around Wellington are hosting events throughout the week of 12 – 19 November under the umbrella, Better off Together / He Waka Eke Noa.

The wider Wellington network of St Vincent de Paul Society are coming together to collectively host Free Shops around the region between November 3 and November 19.

The Free Shop model focuses on giving people the shopping experience without the cost. It’s about giving people the choice to choose what they want for themselves and their family. St Vincent de Paul Society sees this as an opportunity to invest in our communities and the people within them.

Stock will include woman’s, men’s and children’s clothing, shoes, toys, homeware and more. The stock comes from our own Vinnies Op Shops, community donations and the generosity of Kiwi Community Assistance.

Last August, Vinnies Wellington held the first Pop-Up Free Shop in Newtown, attracting 700 people through the doors. Over 30 volunteers supported the event with the help of corporate groups from Housing NZ, Pathways, CCDHB, Massey and Paul Eagles Electorate. Alongside the shop, a free community BBQ was held with tea and coffee provided by Peoples Coffee.

With St Vincent de Paul Wellington, Kapi Mana and Hutt Valley coming together, we aim to reach many more people and ease the material needs of communities throughout the wider Wellington region.

Pop-up Free Shops:
Levin Sat 3 Nov 9am – 12pm Parish Centre
56 Weraroa Road
Newtown Sat 17 Nov 10am – 4pm Old Caltex Space
230 Riddiford Street
a free community lunch will also be held
Lower Hutt Sat 17 Nov 10am – 4pm Sacred Heart Hall
33 Britannia Street
Stokes Valley Sat 17 Nov 10am – 4pm Vinnies Op Shop
3 Scott Court
Wainuiomata Sat 17 Nov 10am – 4pm 2 Stanley Street
Porirua Mon 19 Nov 10am – 2:30pm Mungavin Hall
27a Mungavin Avenue

ends

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