Volunteer Jann Brearley
Uniting AgeWell’s Kalkee Op Shop, which provides valuable funds for aged care services in Geelong, has relocated to a new home after 17 years.
The volunteer-run enterprise closed its doors on it previous location – 50 Francis Street, Belmont – on 15 December last year after the property was sold to developers.
Volunteer coordinator Heather Burger said the sale was a catalyst for bigger and better things for the Kalkee Op Shop.
“Our old site was actually two separate shops next door to each other,” she said.
“The nature of the site presented staffing issues and it was really ready for demolition.
“Now we are all under one roof in a building renovated just for us. We installed a disability ramp and toilet, removed the kitchen of the house and carried out works inside to allow us to neatly display our goods.”
Just down the road from the previous site, the new Kalkee Op Shop opened at 93 Francis Street on 5 March. Since reopening, its continued to provide support for older people and the wider community.
Along with funding Uniting AgeWell’s falls and balance group and music therapy for clients, op shop proceeds pay for furniture, renovations and other projects.
In the past two years, the op shop has funded the purchase of a special wheel-chair accessible bus for transporting clients, along with two renovations at the Kalkee Community, Nangatta aged care residence.
Volunteer of 10 years, Jann Brearley, said the op shop was there for any community member who needed a hand up.
“We work with other charities around Geelong to ensure people in need are looked after,” she said.
“In conjunction with the Salvation Army, people can come in and get a pair of jeans, shirt and shoes.
“We also give a bag of clothes to any of Uniting AgeWell client who needs it.”
Jann encouraged locals to support the Kalkee Op Shop and in-turn support vulnerable people in the community.
The shop sells collectables, clothes, kitchenware, small furniture items, books and sundries.
Kalkee Op Shop is open from Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, and Saturday, 9am to 1pm, at 93 Francis Street. For more information call T: 5241 7098.
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